OUPIA, FRANCE – The wind energy sector is evolving. For some time now we have seen an important development in the sustainability and growth of this sector: used wind turbines are given a second life in areas where little sustainable energy is generated, so that they can provide an elementary power supply. Recently, we have seen an important development in its sustainability and growth: used wind turbines are given a second life in areas where little renewable energy is generated. We recently completed a special project with a client in Oupia, France, which involved dismantling and transporting nine wind turbines to the Caribbean island of Barbados. They are expected to be built there next year.
From Oupia to Barbados
As Iver, experts in wind, we unburden our clients with maintenance, repair, inspection, assembly and disassembly of their wind turbines. We often see used wind turbines being replaced by newer ones. This was also the case with one of our French clients in Oupia. What made this project so special? After dismantling the wind turbines, we transported them by special transport to the port of Sète, France. From there, they were shipped to Barbados where they will be rebuilt and provide the island with additional power supplies. Iver accompanied this project from start to finish.
Nine NegMicon NM52
New wind turbines are becoming bigger, more efficient and more cost-effective. Because of this, first serie turbines are often replaced, like our client’s wind turbines in Oupia. nine wind turbines are NegMicons, type NM52. At the same location, a series of Enercon’s E82 with a 70-metre shaft height will now be installed.
A multidisciplinary team
The project was carried out by a multidisciplinary team. For four weeks, six Iver experts carried out dismantling in France and assembly in Barbados. The request to carry out this assignment was circulated among our staff, some of which indicated that they saw this as a personal challenge. The professionals who took on the task were mainly seniors, with some juniors in training. Well-matched colleagues, who got the job done together. In addition, several professionals from the Netherlands cooperated in the field of work preparation and execution, transport and safety. A crane and transport company was also involved, as was a shipping company from the port of Sète.
A challenging project
The project was a multifaceted process that involved many challenges. For instance, many different parties had to be coordinated. Our professionals also had to brush up on their French, for instance, in order to submit all the necessary forms and official documents in the right language. In addition, the laws and regulations in France and Barbados turned out to differ from those of the Netherlands. All of this posed additional challenges, but our team of experienced professionals, in cooperation with all parties involved, managed to transport the turbines safely and efficiently.
Making an impact together?
Every day, we work on tomorrow’s world, together with our clients. Wondering how we can get the highest return from your wind turbines? Or would you like to work on cool abroad projects like this yourself? We would love to get in touch to discuss the possibilities together!
