DecarbTech - Issue 11
ABB Motion
ABB Motion, a global leader in motors and drives, is at the core of accelerating a more productive & sustainable future.
The editor's picks
Welcome to our first DecarbTech newsletter of the new year!
As we move forward, we remain committed to keeping renewables at the forefront of global efforts to decarbonize industries sustainably. This is highlighted by our recent announcement of the acquisition of the power electronics business of Gamesa Electric to complement our existing power conversion product portfolio, installed base, and service offering and also strengthen our customer relationships. In this edition, we spotlight the wind sector, where technological innovation and strategic reinvestment are driving significant advancements for wind operators and the planet.
Our first article, "Smart Software: Unlocking the True Potential of Wind Power", by Jonas Wahlstroem , Chief Technology Officer, Global Product Group Renewables, ABB System Drives, reveals how advanced analytics, predictive maintenance, and AI-driven insights can help operators optimize performance across their fleets. By leveraging these digital tools, maximizing energy output, reducing downtime, and lowering operational costs is possible—all while supporting the broader shift toward green energy.
In our second piece, "Breathing New Life into Aging Wind Turbines: A Sustainable Approach to Renewable Energy", by Jacim Jacimovic , Product Manager, Global Product Group Renewables, ABB System Drives, we look at how existing infrastructure can be modernized rather than replaced. Through refurbishments, upgrades, and strategic maintenance, older turbines can continue delivering clean energy for years to come. This approach saves money, conserves valuable materials, and reduces environmental impact.
As we enter this new year, these wind-power success stories remind us that decarbonization isn’t just about building a new one. It’s about using technology, innovation, and thoughtful stewardship to ensure that the clean energy we depend on remains reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable.
I wish you a successful year 2025 and all the best to you and your families. Exciting times are ahead of us, in decarbonizing the industry.
Daniel Gerber , Senior Vice President, Global Product Group Manager Renewables, ABB System Drives
Smart Software: Unlocking the True Potential of Wind Power
Jonas Wahlstroem , Chief Technology Officer, Global Product Group Renewables, ABB System Drives
While wind turbines have become a familiar sight across our landscapes and are an important source of energy, many of these impressive structures have the potential to generate even more energy and operate more efficiently. While much attention has been focused on building new wind projects, many aging wind farms could achieve significant improvements through smaller, targeted updates.
The key to unlocking their full potential lies not in mechanical upgrades but in the software that controls these massive machines. Intelligent software solutions offer an economical way to modernize existing wind farms, enhance performance, and extend their operational lifespan
The Software Revolution
A quiet revolution in wind power is being driven by advancements in software and data analysis. Modern software works harmoniously with hardware to optimize wind turbine performance, primarily through enhanced controllers and converters.
Recent breakthroughs in this area include advanced converter control algorithms and robust data capabilities for collection, analysis, and storage. These innovations bring many benefits, including improved grid compliance, predictive maintenance, and remote monitoring capabilities.
At the forefront of these developments are advanced control algorithms, which enable modern wind turbine converters to optimize power output and adapt in real- time to changing wind conditions and grid requirements. This maximizes energy extraction while minimizing structural loads on turbine components, improving durability and efficiency.
Such adaptability is crucial as electricity grids undergo rapid transformation, with expansion projected to accelerate by 20% over the next decade compared to the previous one. Software-driven flexibility ensures turbines can integrate seamlessly into evolving grids, maintaining stability and consistent performance even under challenging conditions.?
Predictive Maintenance and Real-Time Insights
Intelligent software solutions have revolutionized wind farm operations by introducing predictive maintenance and real-time performance analysis. These systems continuously monitor turbine performance, allowing operators to detect potential issues before they escalate. Proactive maintenance reduces downtime, enhances reliability, and ensures that turbines consistently operate at peak efficiency.
Operators also gain access to valuable insights through performance visualization tools. These insights help identify inefficiencies and implement timely improvements, optimizing energy output and minimizing disruptions.
领英推荐
Looking Ahead
The future of wind energy lies in advancing new turbine technologies while optimizing the performance of existing installations. This dual approach ensures that renewables remain a cornerstone of the global energy mix, providing reliable, cost-efficient power.
As grids evolve and energy demands grow, software-driven innovations will play a crucial role in creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. This invisible revolution in wind turbine software is unlocking unprecedented efficiency, extending operational lifespans, and enabling renewable energy to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
By harnessing the power of software, we can maximize the potential of wind power and build a more energy-efficient world.
Breathing New Life into Aging Wind Turbines: A Sustainable Approach to Renewable Energy
Jacim Jacimovic , Product Manager, Global Product Group Renewables, ABB System Drives??
In the race to achieve clean air and a low-carbon future, wind energy has emerged as a leader in renewable energy solutions. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), wind power could supply 35% of global energy demand and contribute nearly one-quarter of the CO2 emission reductions needed by 2050.?
However, as we celebrate the growth of wind farms worldwide, a critical challenge looms: aging infrastructure. Nearly half of all installed wind turbines have been operational for 15 to 20 years, entering a phase where performance declines, unplanned outages increase, and operating costs rise. Moreover, the evolving grid codes and stringent performance requirements make it difficult for older turbines to stay compliant.?
Replacing aging turbines might seem a straightforward solution, but it creates environmental and economic challenges, including massive waste disposal issues. A more sustainable approach lies in modernization and lifecycle extension—upgrading turbines with advanced technology to enhance efficiency and longevity.?
Extending Lifespans with Advanced Technologies?
Modernization efforts focus on upgrading key components, like converter controllers and power electronics, with energy-efficient components.
Small software updates can extend the operational lifespan of turbines, doubling the life of critical components such as converters and boosting overall turbine performance.?
In addition, by optimizing input and output power factor profiles with modern control software and semiconductors, turbines can increase electric power output by up to 10%. These upgrades improve energy production and grid compliance, ensuring turbines remain relevant in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.?
Predictive Maintenance and Real-Time Monitoring?
Modernizing converters enables the integration of advanced condition monitoring systems, which assess turbine health in real-time. These systems support predictive maintenance strategies, helping operators address potential issues proactively. This reduces downtime, extends turbine life, and boosts reliability, ultimately increasing annual energy production.?
Maximizing Existing Infrastructure?
By focusing on converter modernization, the wind industry can increase power output by up to 5%. This approach makes economic sense while supporting renewable energy goals and environmental conservation.?
The future of wind energy lies not just in building new turbines but in unlocking the potential of existing infrastructure. Breathing new life into aging turbines ensures they continue generating clean energy, driving us toward a sustainable and greener future for generations to come.?
DER BUNTE VOGEL ?? Internationaler Wissenstransfer - Influencerin bei Corporate Influencer Club | Wirtschaftswissenschaften Universit?t Münster
1 个月Thank you ABB Motion !
Regio Ambassador Metakids /Bestuurslid VVD Weert/ Early retired Global Client Director ABB at Microsoft
1 个月Interesting to read how ABB every time is able to innovate in a market that is as old as the electricity is. Deep respect for the culture and resilience of ABB.
Electrical supervisor
1 个月Interesting