PTC extension may lead to additional construction in winter months
The extension of the Production Tax Credit (PTC) in the first few days of 2013 was cause for post-Christmas celebration for companies in the...
Reviewing the wind turbine theory of operation for better understanding is necessary for proper...
My career in wind started in 1985 as a wind turbine technician. Back then, U.S. Wind Power was the largest wind turbine manufacture in...
How to perform proper inspection of wind turbine components as end-of-warranty approaches
Over the 20 to 25 year design life of a wind turbine, usually only the first two are covered under warranty. As the end...
Measuring and accounting for the gap between expectations and results
A few years ago while teaching a graduate class in supply chain management at the local university, an inquisitive student asked me this, “Professor...
Wind energy development in Southeastern states faces unique challenges
This year, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) held its annual WINDPOWER conference in Atlanta. One of the main emphases of the conference was...
Proper maintenance and common sense are key to safeguarding against premature failure
Even though an operating turbine’s gearbox might sound normal from the ground, it could be in quite different shape once the inspection covers are...
Observation of metocean conditions is integral in determining design of offshore floating wind turbines
As offshore wind energy projects move farther offshore into deeper waters, erecting wind turbines on floating platforms instead of the traditional fixed-bottom platforms become...
Resolve to identify key competencies and emphasize preparation for continued success the year ahead
Yes, it’s that time of year — time for making your 2013 New Year’s resolutions. While I am not a big resolution guy and...
PTC or not, the wind industry is an ever-changing landscape for post-warranty maintenance
As we round out 2012, it is remarkable to know that the greatest number of wind turbines ever in a single year, some 30,000,...
Excess vortex-induced vibrations wreak havoc on offshore wind turbine mooring lines
Previously, I discussed the fluid-structure interaction problems in floating offshore wind turbines. One of these problems is vortex-induced vibrations of mooring lines. In an...
If properly prepared, trained, and equipped, people — not solely technology —€“ can be...
One of the laws of supply chain I have learned is the law of people. Or as I like to put it: Just...
Some of the best ideas that have improved working conditions have come from people...
What nuggets of innovation are under our noses, held quietly in the minds of the young men and women who simply wish for a...
Multi-rotor wind turbines may be a novel solution to increase energy output offshore
Offshore wind turbines continue to grow, with the latest technology having rated powers of six to seven MW, and rotor diameters as large at...
Advanced planning for foul weather is important when moving overweight cargo and assets
It is the end of summer and I am finally taking a break after a busy summer building schedule. As I relax on the...
Economic curtailment and its potential impact on wind energy growth following implementation of FERC...
Recent regulatory developments continue to further the trend of increased participation by wind energy generators in the forward energy markets. This trend potentially places...
Recently patented innovations address technical problems facing the wind power industry
The value of patents to the wind power industry is evident when studying recent patents. A search for patents related to wind power systems...
Common workdays provide interesting stories about wind farm construction
Crane Service, Inc has a diverse history since we opened back in 1960 when Emmet Storks opened our first branch in Albuquerque. Our growth...
In-house telephotographic blade inspections reduce repair costs and turbine down time
As we know, wind turbines must be periodically inspected and maintained throughout the twenty plus year life of the turbine. Gearboxes, generators, drive motors,...
Have a PIP Method in place to plan, identify, and process shipments to deal...
After working 25 years in the supply chain business there are two things that I personally know as true. One: forecasts are almost always...
Crane business is booming in Texas
In the past decade, Justin Moffett has seen significant changes in the wind energy market. From his home base in Sweetwater, Texas, Moffett says...
