As a member of ASME, how do see yourself playing an active role in the developing safety and wind industry in North America.
I am current chair of the ASME committee for A17.8/B44.8. We seek to continue developing the Standard to its fullest potential. It is difficult work but it is rewarding in knowing that our work will keep people safe for a very long time. For me personally and professionally, SAFETY is key to everything we do.
Can you discuss any recent technological advancements or innovations that have been particularly impactful for the wind industry in the USA?
The latest ASME Standard for wind turbine tower elevators (ASME A17.8-2021/B44.8:21) has changed the game when it comes to wind turbine tower elevator rope replacements. Previously, rope replacements had to occur every 5 years or 250 hours of operation. Now, rope replacements are required per replacement criteria within ASME A17.6. What this means, is that this costly replacement is no longer needed. The ASME committee is always trying to maintain safety while removing excessive cost for the industry. It’s a great thing for our customers and increases their return on investment when buying a wind turbine tower elevator.
What role does government policy or incentives play in promoting the growth of wind power in the USA, and how does this impact your work as a Service Manager?
The end goal is more clean energy. Government promotion and companies willing to invest are a win-win for the industry and the countries of North America. More turbines means more jobs servicing those turbines.
How does the regulatory environment in the USA impact the maintenance and servicing of the wind power infrastructure?
Regulation is important because it means a baseline of safety. Consistent maintenance on wind turbine tower elevators is important to keep workers safe and to keep the elevators in good running condition making them a great efficiency tool for the site.
Alternatively, regulation can present challenges with coordination and cost.
I work to be a resource to our customers that have need of navigating regulation and AHJ interaction. The more the stand point is known the better it becomes to understand the regulation , Standards, and Code, which will lead to better setups for our customers. Leading OEMs within the industry is starting to see the benefits of being more involved in getting regulations up and running properly everywhere to ensure a safer, more cost effective and lean industry.
Can you describe any specific challenges or considerations unique to servicing wind turbines in different regions of the USA, such as coastal areas, plains, or mountainous regions?
The weather is a challenge. It can be either very hot or very cold (and snowy) for our techs at sites. This can mean extra time to stay hydrated, or extra time just to get to turbines because snow transport is necessary. Weather, like lightning storms, can also mean delay and added cost for our customers. Mother Nature like to keep us on our toes.
Are there any safety standards or regulations specific to the USA that you must adhere to when servicing wind turbines? How do these compare to international standards?
Technicians have extensive training with multiple GWO certifications, OSHA, and NFPA70E training, and model and procedural specific training with Avanti. Technicians also understand the ASME Standards as they relate to our elevators.
Jurisdictions that regulate use ASME Standards ranging from 2000 up to the most up to date ASME A17.8, Standard for wind turbine tower elevators.
How does the availability and accessibility of spare parts and equipment impact the efficiency of wind turbine servicing operations in the USA?
Faster parts equal happier customers. While many parts have recovered from Covid-era slowdown, there are still sadly some residual long lead time items.
Can you speak to any trends or shifts in the USA's energy landscape that are influencing the demand for wind power servicing and maintenance?
There are devices flooding the market that do not have a baseline Safety Standard in the same way wind turbine tower elevators do. Customers see money savings compared to high quality products but do not understand the amount of risk assessment and safety that goes into a wind turbine tower elevator vs a lesser machine. Customers get what they pay for and I am concerned that they are paying for a disaster in not choosing the safest solution in the market currently.
How do you see the relationship between wind power servicing companies and local communities evolving in the USA, particularly in terms of job creation and economic development?
Servicing wind turbines is a great job, especially when wind turbine tower elevators are present for use. This means long careers making power for their communities and beyond. More development of projects equals more jobs for local people. It’s a great thing.
Are there any notable differences in the approach to wind power servicing between different states in the USA, either due to geographical factors, regulatory frameworks, or other considerations?
Regulatory fees range greatly in different regions. Some states charge no annual permitting fee while other charge exorbitant fees. We are in a developing industry and with that comes a lot of inconsistency.
Can you discuss the importance of teamwork and communication in your role as a Service Manager, particularly when coordinating with other technicians or working alongside engineers and project managers?
I take pride in overcoming challenges and my technicians take pride in providing service which means a safe product for our customers. Teamwork and communication are key.
What can be anticipated regarding the forthcoming development of offshore wind power in the US?
I see offshore wind as an exciting possibility to expand energy, increase the number of jobs within wind, and innovate. As an American, in the past we have been a leader in innovation and development. With offshore wind, I feel like we are playing a bit of catch-up with other parts of the world. It is exciting to see movement here and it is exciting that our government is fully supporting this with the IRA legislation. I anticipate a lot of work in the next decade.
Looking ahead, what do you see as the future trends or developments in the field of wind energy, and how might they impact the work of wind turbine technicians?
I think taller towers will equal more installations of wind turbine tower elevators. This means more work for my service team, but more importantly, safe transportation from ground to nacelle for people at sites. I am excited for future projects and to keep future technicians safe!
