Discover in the video, the exciting structure of a wind turbine.
As soon as all permits have been granted and contractual processes have been completed, it will get exciting: Within the next 15 months, all parts needed for the construction of a wind turbine will be delivered. In the meantime, we can already create all the important prerequisites for the installation, including necessary ground improvements, preparing the pit, as well as constructing the foundation and electrical lines or setting up a substation. After the actual construction, the manufacturer of the wind turbine checks the proper installation of all components, with the final acceptance carried out by the TÜV. By the way, the construction of the wind turbine depends on its height: for turbines over 125 meters hub height, a hybrid system of concrete and steel elements is often preferred, while smaller turbines are usually entirely made of steel.
Step 1
Applications, discussions and approvals
Before the actual construction of a wind turbine can begin, extensive organisational preparations and the completion of all necessary approval procedures are required.
Step 2
The way to the goal: building access roads
The second step in the construction of a wind turbine involves creating the necessary infrastructure, in particular the access routes to the construction site and the wind turbines.
Step 3
Foundation construction: The basis of the wind turbine
Now the excavation pit for the foundation is dug, the depth and nature of which vary depending on the location and geological conditions.
Step 4
Ecological responsibility: consider species protection and compensatory measures
Species protection and corresponding compensation and replacement measures play a decisive role in the construction of a wind turbine.
Step 5
Assembling the wind turbine: precise assembly
As soon as the contract is valid and the delivery times for the components are finalised, we start with the detailed scheduling. This involves pre-calculating all the phases, such as the construction of the foundations and the laying of the cables.
Step 6
Construction successful: the plant is up and running
As soon as the installation of the wind turbine has been completed, it is commissioned by the manufacturer.
Step 7
Start of operation: Green energy for the region
As soon as the wind turbine has been successfully commissioned, a new test phase begins. During this time, the turbine is intensively monitored to ensure that it runs smoothly and fulfils the specified performance standards.
The duration of the construction of a wind turbine can vary, but generally, it takes around 12 to 15 months from final approval to commissioning. This includes the lead time for components, site preparation, the actual construction, assembly and commissioning of the turbine, as well as the final testing phase and acceptance.
The construction of wind turbines is highly dependent on the weather, particularly the erection of the tower segments and the lifting of heavy components such as the nacelle with the generator or the long rotor blades. Strong winds can cause delays, as stable weather conditions are required for crane operations. Therefore, planning must account for flexible time windows to accommodate such delays.
Safety and environmental protection are central aspects in the construction of wind turbines. During the construction phase, ecological site supervision can be carried out to ensure compliance with all environmental protection regulations. In addition, species protection assessments are conducted to ensure that local wildlife populations are not disturbed. After installation, regular safety inspections and maintenance work are carried out to ensure the safe operation of the facility.
The lifespan of a wind turbine typically lasts around 20 to 25 years. However, this period can vary depending on factors such as the quality of construction, the frequency of maintenance, environmental conditions, and the technology of the turbine. After this time, the turbines can either be repowered, meaning that old components are replaced with modern and more efficient parts, or they are completely dismantled and recycled.
