Lifetime extension of onshore wind turbines : a review covering Germany, Spain, Denmark, and the UK

Ziegler, Lisa and Gonzalez, Elena and Rubert, Tim and Smolka, Ursula and Melero, Julio J. (2018) Lifetime extension of onshore wind turbines : a review covering Germany, Spain, Denmark, and the UK. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 82 (Part 1). 1261–1271. ISSN 1879-0690 (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2017.09.100)

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Abstract

A significant number of wind turbines will reach the end of their planned service life in the near future. A decision on lifetime extension is complex and experiences to date are limited. This review presents the current state-of-the-art for lifetime extension of onshore wind turbines in Germany, Spain, Denmark, and the UK. Information was gathered through a literature review and 24 guidelinebased interviews with key market players. Technical, economic and legal aspects are discussed. Results indicate that end-of-life solutions will develop a significant market over the next five years. The application of updated load simulation and inspections for technical lifetime extension assessment differs between countries. A major concern is the uncertainty about future electricity spot market prices, which determine if lifetime extension is economically feasible.