New research supported by ReMaTec is to look into the feasibility and possibilities of remanufacturing wind turbines – a potentially lucrative area for reman. Netherlands-based sustainability research group ECN part of TNO will conduct the exploratory study, results of which will be available through ReMaTecNews later in 2018.
The research is supported by the industry associations Holland Home of Wind Energy (HHWE) and European Remanufacturing Council, as well as manufacturer and remanufacturer ZF Wind Power. The research is led by Jos Beurskens, former unit manager, renewable energy, at ECN and an authority in the Dutch wind industry. Using the results as a basis for discussion, a conference will take place during ReMaTec 2019 (23-25 June 2019 at RAI Amsterdam) at which the wind energy sector can discuss remanufacturing potential. The research will focus on serial remanufacturing of elements such as mechanical systems. This could include the gearbox, main shaft, gears, brake discs, generator, vacuum engine – and also all electronic sensor equipment. “Introducing remanufacturing as part of the end-of-life solutions for wind turbine systems enables the wind energy industry to make wind power technology even more sustainable than it already is, and it significantly contributes to a full cradle to cradle system,” said Marc Langelaar, business unit director, wind energy, at ECN part of TNO. “Do not forget the additional benefits of further cost savings, material savings and a reduction of the payback time of a wind turbine installation."
