What is the lifespan of a wind turbine?

The lifespan of a wind turbine is not set in stone, as it can be extended or shortened, depending on a number of factors. Understanding the lifespan of wind turbines is vital to planning and investing in wind energy development.

There are several factors that affect how long a wind turbine lasts, including design, maintenance, location and technological advancements. On average, the expected service life of a wind turbine is approximately 25 years, but this doesn’t mean that each component is meant to last for 25 years.

There are several ways to extend the lifespan of wind turbines.

High-quality materials and an aerodynamic design are important for maximising the energy capacity of turbines. These also reduce stress on the turbine structure, which in turn reduces wear and tear on the blades, tower, gearbox and generator –all of which are vital components of the turbine.

Modular design simplifies upgrades and maintenance, as components can be replaced or updated without having to modify the entire turbine.

An onshore wind turbine will naturally experience less wear and tear than an offshore wind turbine. Offshore wind turbines are exposed to rough seas and saltwater, so proper corrosion protection with coatings and the like is essential.

Proper maintenance ensures a longer lifespan and greater capacity and efficiency in wind turbines. In addition to continual monitoring, maintenance is performed at scheduled intervals, typically once or twice a year, when all critical mechanical and electrical components are inspected.

While foundations and towers are expected to last for the full lifespan of the wind turbine, blades, gearboxes, generators and other smaller components normally require repair or replacement sooner than that. This is typically done when a component has reached or exceeded its operational lifetime or when there is significant wear and tear. Many components are often upgraded during repowering efforts to enhance performance and extend the overall lifespan of the turbine.

Steps taken to optimise the operation of wind farms have a significant impact on turbine lifespan. These include optimising load and shutting down turbines if the wind is too strong. It is also important to take preventive measures so that operators are always one step ahead. For example, data monitoring with SCADA systems can alert operators to the need to upgrade or replace components.

Roughly 85 to 95 per cent of a turbine’s materials, including steel, aluminium and copper, can be easily recycled. The blades, however, are made of composite materials, including fiber glass which does not decompose in land fill, so they are very difficult to break down and recycle.

As more and more wind turbines are installed, and with larger and larger blades, this may present a waste problem. As in the rest of the renewable energy industry, research and development is ongoing. Several companies are working on technologies for repurposing and recycling composite materials.