| No. 4 / 2013
The magazine for success with wind Let’s move on: How new opportunities emerge in an uncertain environment The regulations for the wind industry are once again up for discussion. Nevertheless, eno energy is looking to the future with optimism, since the company has always stood for innovation, flexibility and maximum quality. / from page 4
www.eno-energy.com
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3.5 MW enovation for efficiency For maximum efficiency of wind farm The maximum efficiency of wind farm is ensured by the eno 114, even at sites with higher ambient turbulence. 3,500 kW rated power output enables the eno 114 to be the most powerful onshore turbine within the 3 MW class.
www.eno-energy.com
The magazine for success with wind
Content
Editorial
Dear Readers,
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18 Rostock Wind Energy Forum Sailing close to the wind - right on the pulse of the industry
the last parliamentary elections date back quite some time now. Until the new federal government has constituted itself, we are all in a kind of stand-by mode and a lot is being speculated in the wind industry: What will happen with the German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) and the many proposals for its reform? How could a modern electricity market be designed that places renewables in greater competition? And will there be a separate area of responsibility within the government that finally steers the energy turnaround in an effective and reliable manner? Given the current political vacuum, our eno mag 04/13 is focussing more on energy policy aspects. We want to look at the ongoing EEG debate in Germany from a foreign perspective and, through an external energy market expert, examine the future development of the German electricity market from the wind energy point of view. In addition, you will also find out the latest news from all areas of the company. For instance, the articles on the development of innovative rotor blades and new electronic components provide us with a foretaste for next year when eno will be increasing its production depth and quality by means of considerable self-developed technology, thus setting a clear example in the industry. We hope you enjoy your reading and we wish you an excellent start to 2014.
19 Corporate Design eno energy in a new dress
Andreas Jessel Head of Marketing + Communication
Energy policy and market Sweden’s quota model, model for Germany?
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Electricity market development from the wind energy perspective
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Financing and Shareholdings Evaluation of wind projects today and with a changed electricity marketdesign
10 Projects Repowering: a broad field but a great chance for the eno 114 12 Densification and expansion Two exciting wind projects in Broderstorfand Suderburg 13 Construction and Technology eno energy increases production depth
14 Time that things begin to turn eno reaches the final straight on route to achieving its own rotor blade 16 eno international eno team with the new eno 82 - 1.5 MW in Birmingham; Office opening in Paris 17 eno mix Underway with the wind or how wind energy has taken to the road
Imprint Author eno energy GmbH | Am Strande 2 e | 18055 Rostock | Germany | phone: +49 (0)381 . 20 37 92-0 | fax: +49 (0)381 . 20 37 92-101 | info@eno-energy.com | www.eno-energy.com | Editing and Layout Andreas Jessel | Layout WERK3.de | Printing Stadtdruckerei Weidner | Paper Satimat Green 60 % Recycling, 40 % FSC | Copyright All contributions published in e.n.o. magazine (copy, photos, graphics, tables, logos) are protected by copyright. Reprinting, inclusion in databases, use in online services or Internet pages and reproduction are only permitted with the prior written permission by e.n.o. energy Gmbh. | Despite careful inspection of the publication by the editorial team, eno can accept no liability for its accuracy. | Published sporadically | Photo WMC . eno energy
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Energy Policy + Market
Gert-Olof Holst The graduate electrical engineer has been active in the wind industry since 1996. Before he became Managing Director of eno energy Sweden in 2012, Gert-Olof Holst worked for two large wind energy companies as a Sales Manager and Managing Director. He has now brought almost 100 MW of wind energy onto the Swedish market. www.eno-energy.com
Quota model in Sweden, model for Germany? Interview with Gert-Olof Holst Mr Holst, you became head of eno energy Sweden AB in 2011. How is the wind energy market currently developing in Sweden? The Swedish Energy Agency provides regular forecasts on the short- and longterm development of the wind energy market. The latest short-term forecast issued in autumn 2013 estimates that the production of wind power will increase up to 9.3 TWh in 2013 and up to 10.8 TWh in 2014. It is expected to reach an output of 12 TWh in the following year in 2015. The wind industry is far more optimistic about developments in Sweden. According to Swedish Wind Energy’s latest forecast from this year, the provision of wind energy is already likely to reach 16 TWh in 2020. Yet another picture is offe-
red when taking a glimpse at the Vindbruk Kollen database. Here projects are registered which, should they be realised, would enable well over 30 TWh of electricity to be produced from wind energy.
issued to all renewable energy producers. This system is based on the share of the total electricity consumed by end consumers in Sweden that our legislators have stipulated should be met by renewable energies.
Our Energy Agency estimates that Sweden will achieve its target of generating 50 percent of its total electricity production from renewable energies by 2020.
For the year 2013, a share of 13Â % has been specified. Our electricity providers must purchase certificates and report each year to the responsible authorities that they have bought the same number of certificates as the quota of renewable energy sold to their customers.
Your connection to the German parent company enables you to compare the situation in both countries, especially regarding the public subsidy systems for renewable energies. What are the differences? Sweden’s system is market-based and utilises green certificates that are not linked to any specific technology but are
In contrast, Germany has a feed-in tariff system that is not market-based and which guarantees producers definite income security for a period of 20 years. For years the German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) was
The magazine for success with wind
seen as a role model in Europe and in many other countries worldwide. But now the discussion about exploding energy prices, which are often solely attributed to the expansion of renewable energies, threatens to jeopardise its acceptance in Germany. Do you see an advantage in the Swedish quota model? There are indeed advantages in the Swedish model. Sweden has seen a relatively large expansion of renewable energy at a low cost to taxpayers. This system also exerts considerable pressure on landowners, contractors and project developers to use renewable energy. However, it is frequently overlooked in the discussion that our system has not led to the development of a domestic Swedish wind energy industry.
means that it has to be ensured that this loss can be compensated for by other forms of energy production – and hopefully by renewables. This I think requires more than a purely market-based quota system like the one we have in Sweden. Perhaps a quota system with a minimum guaranteed compensation would be suitable. It is always about creating good conditions for sustainable investment and financial security. That is difficult to achieve in a purely market-based quota system. In 2013 you have erected several wind turbines in Sweden. What were your experiences with the licensing autho-
rities and which difficulties did you have to overcome? We haven’t had any problems obtaining permits and licenses from the authorities for the wind turbines that we have delivered in 2013. We have supplied projects where the permits and licenses were already granted. The existing expertise within the company and the Swedish subsidiary company ensured that these projects were able to be realised in a very professional manner. Although polls show considerable approval for expanding renewable energies, there are still huge problems in Germany when it comes to
In a market-based quota system, only large companies can balance out the considerable fluctuations in remuneration that can be achieved for the electricity production as a result of their strong financial resources. This makes it difficult for smaller companies and private operators to participate in this system. Does the quota model ensure stronger competition and lower energy prices? Yes, it increases competition and lowers prices but you have to see the big picture. Long-term planning security is required for those who invest in renewable energies, otherwise there will only be limited growth in the wind industry. This is where incentives need to be createdso that there is investment security and a wind industry can develop in Sweden. This will also lead to great tax revenues and more employment in the long term. How would you assess the current situation in Germany? Which need for reform do you see? Ultimately it is difficult to say which model Germany needs. Germany’s clear cut decision to phase out nuclear power
q C onstruction of the eno 100 in Kulleryd (Sweden, 2013)
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Energy Policy + Market
accepting new wind farms. What is the situation in Sweden? My experiences in project develop ment – and not just in Sweden but also in Finland and Norway – have shown me that the issue of acceptance is more or less the same in all countries. It seems that people everywhere understand that we need to switch to renewable energies – just as long as it doesn’t happen in their own backyard. In Sweden and other Nordic countries we have a great advantage over Germany in that we have a much lower popula-
tion density and therefore a much more relaxed situation when it comes to locations for renewable energy facilities. I know that it now sounds like a platitude, but we always strive to hold an open dialogue during the very early stages of a project with those who live in the immediate vicinity of the planned wind turbines and, if possible, find models for shared ownership. What potential do you see in your country for expanding wind energy and which goals does eno energy Sweden want to achieve during the next few years?
There is considerable potential for renewable energies in Sweden. Given that the traditionally large proportion of hydropower offers little potential for expansion and that we have ambitious goals such as replacing all fossil fuels with renewables by 2020, wind energy will remain an important component for further expansion. eno energy Sweden is aiming to achieve a market share of three percent in 2014 and further expand the eno brand.
Guest article
Development of the German electricity market from the perspective of wind energy Given a new »black-red« grand coalition government, the next steps for shaping the future of the German electricity market will be redefined. The government is planning to amend the EEG by Easter 2014. What is to be expected? Almost certain would be the introduction of mandatory direct selling as part of the market bonus for new installations. Initially, this will take place as before via a flexible market bonus. This will later be replaced by a fixed bonus, as a supplement to revenue from the direct sale of electricity. The aim is to achieve demand-driven supply. What this means for supply-dependent, fluctuating renewable energy sources like wind and solar energy will be considered below. First, however, it
should be noted that mandatory direct selling in the context of a flexible market bonus involves risks for today’s wind energy sector participants. This might sound paradoxical because over 80 % of all wind turbines are alrea-
financing costs and a higher equity ratio. Companies with sufficient capital are therefore preferred along the entire value creation chain, thereby endangering any further market participation of small and medium-sized businesses. However, these effects can be counteracted by
»What are the prospects of independently selling wind energy regardless of political decisions and funding?« dy marketed via the market bonus model. However, once the security of being able to return to the feed-in tariff at any time falls away, the risks (e.g. insolvency of the direct seller) are assessed far higher by banks. This leads to higher
appropriate regulations to minimise risks, in particular the risk of non-payment by the direct seller. If funding is implemented as a fixed bonuson revenue from the electricity
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The magazine for success with wind
Gas turbines
Market price with CO2 Electricity price effect of the emission trading
Market price without CO2
CCPP
Nuclear power plants
Renewable energies
Coal PP, old
Lignite PP, old
Coal PP, new
Lignite PP, new
Electricity requirement
Electricity price
CO2 costs for fossil power plants
Variable costs for power plants (without CO2)
Installed capacity (cumulated)
q Figure 1: Merit order (Source: Energy Brainpool)
3,000
1,750
1,250
2,500
1,000 750
Extreme prices over 100 EUR/MWh
2,000
500 250
1,500
0 -250 -500 -750
1,000
Extreme prices under 0 EUR/MWh
-1,000 500
-1,250 -1,500
0
Extreme prices (over 100 EUR/MWh)
q Figure 2: Development of extreme prices until 2040 (Source: Energy Brainpool)
No. of extreme prices
2039
2040
2038
2037
2036
2034
2035
2033
2031
Extreme prices (under 0 EUR/MWh)
2032
2029
2030
2027
2028
2026
2024
2025
2023
2022
2021
2019
2020
2017
2018
2016
2014
2015
-1,750
No. of extreme prices
No. of positive and negative extreme prices
1,500
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Energy Policy + Market / Financing + Shareholdings
market, there is a risk that the bonus will be too low or too high. Free-rider effects are possible if the bonus is too high. If the bonus were too low, this would
factor, that is, many wind turbines generateelectricity at the same time, so powersupply is running high and the prices are low. From the current point of
»The most expensive plant that has to generate electricity to meet demand determines the price.« bear – in addition to the risks mentioned above – the risk that any further expansion would grind to a halt since projects are then no longer profitable. What are the prospects of independently selling wind energy regardless of political decisions and funding? There are excess capacities on the Germanelectricity market, not least caused by the expan sion of renewable energies. In recent years, this has led to steadily declining electricity prices. In this so-called energy-only market, the use of power plants is determined by the merit order for each individual hour, in which case the plants are sorted by short-term marginal costs. The most expensive plant that has to generate electricity to meet demand determines the price. This price also applies to all other plants in operation at the time (see Figure 1). Load peaks were previously covered by flexible but expensive gas-fired power plants. However, they are needed to complement renewable energy in the future due to their flexibility. Wind turbines, in turn, generate elec tricityat a marginal cost of zero. They therefore lead the merit order (sequence of power plant use determined by marginalcosts of electricity generation, and displace more expensive power plants that are rarely used. With only a few hours at full load and with low prices, these conventional powerplants are uneconomical. Wind turbines, however, cannot ge nerate in a demand-oriented way but are supply-dependent (is there any wind?) in times of high prices. In addi tion, there is a significant simultaneity
view, it is unlikely that the full costs of wind turbines will be carried on the pure electricity market at least until cost-efficient storage systems or load management systemshave been developed. Looking at the expected long-term development of the electricity market, many of the issues raised will be put into perspective. When nuclear power has been
phased out by 2022 at the latest, relevant excess capacities are expected to disappear. From this point on, prices will fluctuate much more frequently and stronger, not least caused by the volatile supply of wind and solar energy (see Figure 2). New business models will arise through these price differences – for flexible gasfired power plants as well as for wind and PV systems and storage and load management systems. That is why, for example, electricity sales by virtual combined power plants including storage systems could be shifted to times of high prices, i.e. high demand and low electricity generation by wind and sun energy. Guest article: Author Tobias Huschke, Energy Brainpool
Tobias Huschke // Graduate industrial engineer with a focus on environmental technology // 12 years of professional experience in renewable energies: European Sales Manager for a medium-sized solar power company; Development of business models for marketing solar power without EEG; Infrastructure projects for feeding renewable energies into the grid // Since 2013 Senior Consultant at Energy Brainpool, focus on transforming the renewable energy market
Energy Brainpool GmbH & Co. KG The independent analysis and consulting company for the energy industry. We offer individual training and consultancy services, studies and forecasts, as well as our own energy marketing model (power2Sim) for simulating the electricity and gas markets and the CO2 trade in Europe. In the market transformation of renewable energies field, we produce studies and offer training programmes and in-house seminars on renewable energies in the electricity market. In addition, we also offer a diverse range of services and consultancy products such as business model development and optimisation.
www.energybrainpool.com
The magazine for success with wind
Guest article
Evaluation of wind projects today and with a changed electricity market design By Joachim Treder, Senior Vice President Renewable Energy Orgination HSH Nordbank AG
In Germany, both the financing and evaluation of wind energy projects are largely influenced by the German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), which among others provides planning security. Whereas similar regulations are available in other countries, such as France, there are also countries where completely market-based remuneration systems are used. The type of subsidies available for wind energy, however, has a considerable influence on the funding possibilities and realisation of projects. Classic project funding structures are frequently used in systems with fixed feed-in regimes. This is due to the fact that in contrast to conventional corporate financing, project financing is conducted exclusively through the project yields and there are generally no possibilities for accessing other assets from shareholders and/or any associated third parties, such as holdings. It is therefore necessary to be able to calculate the yields expected in a project as accurately as possible, as is done based on fixed feed-in tariffs and robust wind yield appraisals. As with companies, wind farms are evaluated on the basis of the yields expected in future. These are discounted taking into account the opportunity costs and the risk aspects, which – to put it simply – leads to the so-called net present value for the yields expected in future. This value, reduced by the proportion of borrowed capital, corresponds to the »fair« price for the wind farm. The starting point for evaluating wind farms are the yields expected in
future. The more likely that they occur, the lower the fluctuation range of the company value. This is due to the risk add-ons with the required discount rate. In a system of market-based remuneration, these are very difficult to forecast across the wind farm’s period of utilisation. This in turn leads to an increase in the risk and ultimately to a lower evaluation of the wind farm. Classic project financing with a high proportion of external capital and limited liability rights is likewise difficult to realise. In addition to evaluating the share rights for a wind farm, it is also possible to just evaluate the project rights for a wind farm that is still to be constructed. The basic evaluation here is conducted according to the same model, whereby the evaluation increases as the project progresses. This is partly due to the increased probability of the future yields occurring: the more construction and planning risks that are overcome, the lower the fluctuation range in the evaluation. Evolving project rights generally first gain an appreciable value with the issuing of the German Federal Emission Control Act (BImSchG) approval. This increases successively as soon as the financing is secured, the site is secured and the purchase agreements are signed. All steps including their respective evaluations and the concluding evaluation are based on reliable framework conditions that are provided, amongst others,
Joachim Treder Joachim Treder has been active in the renewable energy field since 2002. At HSH Nordbank – one of the energy industry’s leading financers for wind and solar power projects – he is responsible among other things for project financing in Germany and abroad. In regards to his business relations with eno energy, the financial expert says: »We’re following the development of eno energy GmbH with increasingly growing interest. The collaboration that started a few years ago already resulted in a joint transaction in 2012. We’re interested in intensifying the relationship in future. We value eno’s previous successes both in the project development field as well as in the production of its selfdeveloped wind turbines, combined with the increased foreign focus.«
www.hsh-nordbank.de
by the current German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). In order to be able to complete the energy revolution and the expansion of renewable energies in accordance with plans, it is necessary to take these aims into consideration with the forthcoming amendment to the EEG Act. It should be urgently ensured that the framework conditions do not endanger the aims. Such a risk is inherent, for example, in considering whether to restrict and/or completely cancel the precedence given to renewable energies. Furthermore, any changes should be provided with transitional periods that take into account the long and costintensive planning process for wind turbines. Guest article: Author Joachim Treder, HSH Nordbank AG
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Projects
Repowering: a broad field but a great chance for the eno 114 For years now, repowering has been predicted a bright future on the onshore market. However, the big breakthrough in replacing older with new turbines is yet to happen. First, numerous legal approval issues and economic barriers need to be overcome. For example, old development plans by default do not permit repowering projects for wind energy purposes. Even newly created regional plans no longer define a number of old sites as suitable areas. According to surveys conducted by the consulting company »Deutsche WindGuard«, about 4,500 of the 23,000 existing wind turbines were older than 15 years at the end of 2012. These so-called first generation turbines are often individual systems and are usually operated by private persons who have paid off their systems and now operate them profitably. These individuals often simply lack the equity for expensive repowering measures with large new machines. Nevertheless, of the approximately 1,000 newly installed wind turbines in 2012, about 16 % were repowering projects according to estimates of the »Deutsche WindGuard«.
used in offshore installations. Due to its low speed, the system runs very quietly and wake buffeting is reduced.« In addition, there is a four-point suspension with an unconstrained gearbox mounting instead of the conventional threepoint suspension and a newly developed rotor blade design that minimises turbine-induced turbulences with a better rotor profile. The improved aerodynamics shortens the turbulence cone behind the turbine. All in all, the turbine density in wind farms can be increased thanks to the excellent turbulence properties – both in existing and in new farms. The use of the eno 114 ensures a maximum utilisation of available space while minimising sectoral shutdowns – and thus guarantees highest yields.
The operators’ benefits of repowering are obvious: new wind turbines are more reliable and require less maintenance than old ones.
eno energy implemented a task force some time ago, which deals extensively with the issue of repowering. This team is currently conducting an analysis with a subsequent evaluation at various project developers with potential sites. Henri Wasnick from eno energy systems GmbH belongs to this group and is confident after reviewing the initial results. »Although not all sites that are technically viable come into question because of height restrictions or unrealisable nature conservation issues,« says the sales manager, »we noted a growing demand with planners and private operators, as the rapid development of technology makes it economically feasible to replace underperforming small older turbines with high-performing new ones before the end of their technical service life.« The reason for the company’s pronounced interest in this topic is the eno 114 with its large 3.5-MW generator that boasts an ample power output and the right properties that allow for an implementation of repowering measures even in technically difficult locations, due to turbulences for example. Wasnick is enthusiastic about the technical possibilities of this machine: »The eno 114 has a gear mechanism as it is normally
The operators’ benefits of repowering are obvious: new wind turbines are more reliable and require less maintenance than old ones. They generally achieve more full load hours thanks to technical developments. And abroad, there now is a secondary market for older wind turbines that are being replaced.
When repowering projects meet the legal requirements, such as a minimum age of ten years for the existing turbine, there are additional incentives in the form of higher initial remuneration rates and an EEG bonus of 0.5 cents/kWh that, however, is only paid given a double power rating versus the old turbine. »Many old first and second generation turbines range between 500 kW and 1.5 MW,« says Henri Wasnick and adds, »With the large 3.5 MW generator of the 114 series, we easily meet the bonus requirements. And even if the bonus is cut by an EEG amendment, projects in various locations will be economically justifiable nevertheless.« It has generally become the rule of thumb for determining the cost effectiveness and efficient use of sites that half the turbine count while double the power output means tripling the yield. Municipalities can also benefit from repowering measures, and not only in economic terms. Due to the larger installed capacity, higher yields are generated that in return increase trade taxes for the community. Compared to old wind turbines, new ones are optimised in terms of shading and light reflections. Moreover, they are quieter due to improved rotor blade aerody-
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The magazine for success with wind
Wind energy expansion status
Capacity in MW
Increase in 2012 From repowering (trend value, not binding)
No. of wind turbines
2,415.16
998
431.63
161
From offshore wind energy (initial injection)
80.00
16
Reduction (trend value, not binding)
178.56
252
31,307.60
23,030
From repowering (trend value, not binding)
1,442.51
626
From offshore wind energy (initial injection)
280.30
68
Reduction (trend value, not binding)
626.77
998
Cumulated values, 31 December 2012
q S tatus of wind energy reduction on 31 December 2012 (data 1992-2011: DEWI)
namics and geometry, and they run slower due to lower rotation speeds. Finally, a lower number of wind turbines relieves the landscape and old planning errors such as too small distances to residential areas can be corrected.
cement of four old 500 kW turbines manufactured by Nordwind with three eno 82s in the district of Ludwigslust-Parchim in Mecklenburg-West Pomerania. »Our customers appreciate our flexibility, which manifests itself in our specific and comprehensive support during all project phases from individual projects to wind farms,« Henri Wasnick summarises the situation in the eno sales department. »Given the technical advantages of our turbines – particularly of the eno 114 for technically challenging locations – and our short delivery times, we are well-equipped for the upcoming repowering years.«
Regarding the question of acceptance, another advantage might result: approval for a repowering measure may be higher in communities in which local residents have become accustomed to turbines over the years, and even view them as new landmarks of their villages and towns. Several repowering projects are currently in development at eno energy. In addition to the current plans with the eno 114, there are projects with other turbine types, such as the repla-
30,000
2,700
27,000
2,400
24,000
2,100
21,000
1,800
19,000
1,500
15,000
1,200
12,000
900
9,000
600
6,000
300
3,000
0
0
Reduction in no. of turbines
Offshore wind energy: no. of turbines
New onshore projects: no. of turbines
Repowering: no. of turbines
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
2001
2000
1999
1998
1997
1996
1995
1994
-3,000 1993
-300
Cumulated no. of turbines
Cumulated no. of wind turbines
3,000
1992
Annual increase in the no. of wind turbines
q A nnually installed wind turbines in Germany / Cumulated no. of wind turbines / Status 31.12.2012 (data 1992-2011: DEWI)
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Projects / Construction + Technology
q C ompletion of the Stäbelow wind farm in November 2013
Densification and expansion: Two exciting wind projects in Broderstorf and Suderburg Broderstorf At the Broderstorf wind farm, close to the edge of Rostock, the last gaps are being constructed – sometimes known in the trade as »wind farm densification«. Here it is particularly important to get the very best out of the given conditions, i.e. the wind turbines already constructed by various manufacturers. The range of issues that have to be taken into account is considerable and extends from spacing requirements, construction loads and height limitations to noise emissions and turbulence to the farm efficiency and expected yield from the wind turbines. Since the eno 92 offers excellent performance, all stakeholders quickly realised that eno technology should be used at this site. With a measured sound power level of 102.4 dB(A), the two eno 92 turbines being deployed are among the quietest wind turbines in this segment – which is a particularly decisive criterion when expanding existing wind farms.
The customer, who is an experienced planner and operator, particularly appreciates that eno energy not only supplies wind turbines but, as a general contractor, also looks after the entire infrastructure including the access routes, crane hardstandings, foundations, cable lines and the customer transfer station. The logistic challenge with each wind energy project is to synchronise the delivery phase for the individual components for each wind turbine with the activities on the construction site. The aim is to achieve »just in time« deliveries, whereby the components arrive on the construction site just as they are needed to be installed. Frank Köhler, Senior Sales Manager of eno energy systems, describes the short delivery time for the two turbines, which usually ranges between 12 and 15 months, as »sensational«. »The contract was signed after extraordinarily constructive negotiations in March this year. The financing was already in place by the end of August, which on balance corresponds to a 3-month delivery time. This was achieved above all through the intensive and pragmatic collaboration between eno and our customer.«
The magazine for success with wind
Suderburg Another interesting project in Suderburg (Rural District of Uelzen in Lower Saxony) resulted from a cooperation begun in spring 2013 between eno energy and the project developer GETproject, which is now starting to come to fruition. The Suderburg wind farm, which commenced operation in 2010 with four wind turbines, is now being expanded with an eno 92. The preparatory construction work has already commenced. During the next few weeks the foundation will be poured and the grid connection made. As with Broderstorf, the unusually short delivery time will enablethe 2.2 MW wind turbine to already begin operation in December. »The quick and customer-oriented cooperation, but above all the shorter-than-average delivery time for the turbine, has made it possible to already commence operation this year,« praises Neithardt Kempcke, the responsible projectmanager at GETproject, in describing the goal-oriented collaborationwith the Rostock manufacturer.
Approval for the fifth wind turbine was granted at the end of 2011. An eno 92 wind turbine will be constructed with a hub height of 103 metres. It was only through the very close collaborationbetween the sales and project management that it was possible to accord with the high quality stipulations. Both in contractual and (grid-related) technical terms, eno energy succeeded in meeting the high demands the GETproject placed on it as the contractor. Neithardt Kempcke was particularly impressed by the coordinated construction process at the site: »The very well organised execution by the project management ensures that we can begin operating the wind turbines on schedule.« With a capacity of 64.5 megawatts, GETproject’s seven wind farms installed in the Rural District of Uelzen can in principle supply almost the entire area with clean electricity. Further projects are being prepared, for which negotiations are being conducted with eno energy for the delivery of wind turbines.
eno energy increases production depth Staff from almost all areas of the eno energy group are now employed at the Rerik site. This houses parts of the Wind & Site, Research & Development, Accounting, Operations Management, IT and Production Planning areas. Production areas for self-developed electronic components have also been recently established here. For example, work has begun in one of the production sheds on manufac turing the top boxes for nacelles as well as switch cabinets for tower feet. The mass production of pitch systems has also begun. With the inno vative eno pitch.control® rotor control system, ultracapacitors are being used instead of lead batteries, which accordingly lengthens the service life, saves weight and dispenses with the need for heating. In addition, two inver-
q Installing the new switch cabinets
ters will be deployed per rotor blade. This means that, even if one inverter fails, it will still be possible to move the blade into a safe feathered position. The blade drive is powered by maintenance-free, light asynchronous motors – consequently without permanent magnets.
In addition to the economic benefits, eno energy is hoping that the gradual increase in self-production will also improve the service quality. By activating its headquarters in Rerik as an additional production site, eno energy is creating more capacities for the production and further jobs in the region.
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Construction + Technology
q Test assembly for the eno blade 56
Time that things begin to turn: eno reaches the final straight on route to achieving its own rotor blade In the 02/2013 issue, eno mag reported about the introduction of eno’s own rotor blades, the challenges faced with the dimensioning and the special features of the blade design. eno has meanwhile made considerable progress and is on the verge of that exciting moment when the first eno blade 56 set – or EB56 for short – will revolve on a prototype of the new 3.5-MW platform.
sive and tensile forces and as a stiffening web. Renowned engineering and consultancy companies who work for the most successful German wind turbine manufacturers have continually monitored the overall production and have approved the individual milestones in close coordination with eno, ranging from the brace approval and the shell bonding to the geometric been carrying measurement.
»We’ve out tests on rotor blades for almost 30 years«
Tilo Veit, project manager for rotor blade production at eno energy systems GmbH, has accompanied the rotor blade development from the beginning. »Things have really started to move since it was confirmed at the end of April 2013 that the EB56 can be used on a prototype for the eno 114 wind turbine and that production is up and running.«
Before beginning the extensive testing and certification process, the test blade was first of all produced from a new mould. As with the blades in the mass production, it is made of glass fibre-reinforced plastic and is manufactured using halfshells as part of a sandwich construction method. The internal structural framework acts as a brace for absorbing compres
»The test blade was produced in accordance with the blade specification and meets all mandatory requirements,« explains Veit, who is a mechanical engineer. »How ever, the quality requirements for our own structures go even further. That’s why we’re particularly proud that our blade has turned out so light. In addition to the positive cost effect, this also relieves the weight on the rotor hub and bearings. Furthermore, the aero-acoustically optimised blade shape will make the eno 114 one of the quietest wind turbines on the market.« Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services/Renewable Energies was commissioned to certify the eno rotor blade. This comprehensive process includes checking the design and calcu-
The magazine for success with wind
q D elivering the test rotor blade at WMC
lation documents, assessing the execution of the structural requirements in the production and assembly (IPE) as well as conducting the blade test. The blade test forms the central component of the certification process and is being conducted at WMC in Holland. The renowned institute, founded by the Delft University of Technology (TUD) and the Energy Research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN), specialises in material research and the testing of glass fibre-reinforced plastic for the wind industry. »We’ve been carrying out comprehensive tests on rotor blades for almost 30 years,« explains Maaik Borst, who works as a research scientist at WMC. »The 56-metre-long eno blades are among the largest blades on the market, which is why a comprehensive test procedure is being conducted.« An important component of the blade test are the structural tests conducted on the rotor blade in all four directions, whereby the rotor blade is tested in two different directions in both the edgewise and flapwise directions. These tests will be followed by the fatigue and concluding post-fatigue tests, where the material fatigue will be tested in detail. The entire process is scheduled to be completed by the beginning of 2014 and sealed with the receipt of the certificate from Germanischer Lloyd. »The rotor blades are subjected to extreme duress during the tests,« explains Maaik Borst. »We operate the blades with 2.5 million load changes so as to simulate the operational ser-
vice life.« During the structural test extreme loads are applied, such as only occur with extreme wind gusts or emergency stop procedures. »This causes the rotor blades to bend by up to twelve metres near the rotor tips, which corresponds to a weight of about 30 tonnes on the blades,« adds the scientist. In addition, the strain is measured at more than one hundred strain measurement points distributed along the blade. Borst’s colleague, John Heijdra, the Technical Project Manager at WMC, praises the excellent cooperation between all the players. »We’re very satisfied with the excellent collaboration between eno and WMC in the test preparation phase and the excellent project management from Tilo Veit. An optimal test setup has been achieved as part of a step-by-step process between all participants.« »It was only when transporting the blade from the manufacturer to the tester that the coordination didn’t quite go to plan,« says Tilo Veit with a wink. »Unfortunately, a few forgotten steel plates for the lorry wheels meant that the lorry got stuck in the ground just before reaching the WMC site. However, thanks to our Dutch partner’s improvisation skills, the problem was quickly solved.« About 20 blade sets are scheduled to be produced next year. The next major challenge is expected in the middle of 2014. WMC will then begin testing the even larger EB61.6 rotor blade, which has also been developed by eno and will be used with the sistor of eno 114, the eno 126.
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eno international / eno mix
eno team with the new eno 82 - 1.5 MW in Birmingham Outside there is typical British weather – it’s raining – on the inside there are lively discussions with project developers from England, Wales and Scotland. At eno energy’s trade fair stand at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, a five-member eno team presented the new eno 82 – 1.5 MW wind turbine, which has been specially developed for individual sites in the UK with average wind speeds of 8.5 m/s.
segment, eno wants to exploit the previously little utilised range between 500 KW and 1.5 MW. This is because in accordance with the English saying »Don’t put all your eggs in one basket«, project developers and investors are now looking for alternatives to the 100-500 kW tariff class. Here it is not just the uncertainty regarding the reduction in the feed-in remuneration that is playing a role, since in this case the argument fully applies that, despite the lower remuneration, there are greater yields across a 20-year period in the tariff range between 0.5 and 1.5 MW. The discussions have also shown that project developers have simply not been able to find wind turbines that are technically mature and adapted to the wind conditions here. Therefore many interested customers praised the fact that the 1.5 MW turbine offers a high annual full-load rating and is available with flexible hub heights. Particularly the tower version with a 59-metre hub height – which is also available with 80 metres – met with considerable interest, since at many sites it is not permitted to build above 100 metres. The wind turbines are equipped with a fully fledged, high quality 1.5 MW generator that secures the tariff accreditation in the UK and ensures one hundred per cent investment security. The sales team won additional brownie points for the successful nacelle design and the service offering. For example, eno energy will also offer to install the wind turbines and, by constructing service stations, look after the maintenance of the turbines through trained, on-site service teams.
q In interview: Sales Manager Helmut Lange
RenewableUK – this year hosted in the old industrial city in the West Midlands – is the leading trade fair for renewable energies in the United Kingdom, which was also reflected by the presence of the market leaders among the wind turbine manufacturers. In contrast to their focus on large wind farms or the previous focus by other manufacturers on the small wind plant
»One indicator that we are on the right way is that quite a few project developers have several projects in the pipeline with which the 1.5 MW turbine can be deployed. We therefore now have the perfect turbine for this in our portfolio,« sums up eno Sales Manager Helmut Lange, and he adds that, in addition to the 1.5 MW turbine, the very powerful eno 114 with 3.5 MW and a 92-metre steel tower also brings with it the best attributes for the UK market.
Office opening in Paris eno further expand activities in France Energie Eolienne France (EEF), a subsidiary of the eno energy group, have recently opened a second office in Paris. Eric Sauvaget, French Country Manager, and his team consisting of three employees are currently working on projects in northern France and Belgium. With 60 MW in the pipeline, expanding business activities in the area of project development and implementation are the top priorities. By 2015, EEF plan to build up to ten wind turbines in Brittany. Owing to increased interest in eno technologies, whose benefits are becoming increasingly significant for the French market, the team led by Eric Sauvaget is also set to intensify sales and marketing activities in 2014.
The magazine for success with wind
q Riding to work with the eno e-bike
Underway with the wind or how wind energy has taken to the road It is not true that it always rains in Hamburg: the days are oftenfar too nice to be travelling to meetings by car. That is why many of the sales staff in Hamburg like taking the bike – the eno e-bike to be more precise. This in-house development has been designed with a considerable love for detail, with particular attention paid to the high quality of the components. For example, the exclusive frame design enables the portable lithium-ion batteries to be integrated harmoniously in the aluminiumframe – while also making a visual nod to our companylogo, a wind turbine rotor. »For us as a manufacturer of wind turbines it is important to show that renewable energies can be combined with electromobility. We want to drive forward the energy revolution and use electricity in a sustainable manner. For this reason, in summer 2012 eno energy sytems GmbH gave the go-ahead for the development of its own electric bike,« says Frank Riemer, Sales Manager at eno energy systems GmbH, in summarising the initial idea to have their own e-bike. He spends a lot of time underway on the new two-wheeler: »Hamburg is excellent for cycling, although having to stop all the time at the traffic lights is annoying. The additional energy that the e-bike provides when accelerating makes it ideal for quickly and easily weaving through the city’s stop-and-go traffic. Even longer distances that would have been previously
made by public transport or car seem just a stone’s throw away with the e-bike.« The Streetster Cruise is a real eye-catcher: people turn their heads when you cycle through the city on the bike. This touring version is driven by an infinitely variable NuVinci gear hub combined with a belt drive system and a centrallymounted, high-performance 36V/250W motor. Via the Gates low-friction belt drive, the power is transferred quietly to the rear wheel where it is child’s play to adjust the gears in all situations. That is particularly impressive when you ride the bike for the first time. »The eno-bike makes it easy to give a greater emphasis to sustainability. This is how we can also shape tomorrow’s world: simply leave the car at home and use the bike to get to meetings or embark on longer tours in your free time – with the e-bike it’s easy without getting out of breath,« says the delighted 29-year-old. A small series with almost 40 bikes has already been produced; next year the follow-up series will be launched on the market at a cost of about 3,500 euros per bike. These shall be sold throughout Germany and also raise the profile of the turbine constructor as a brand. Everywhere where the bikes are underway, customers ask for a test ride and are thrilled by them.
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eno mix
q Forum at the 2nd Rostock Wind Energy Forum
Sailing close to the wind - right on the pulse of the industry eno establishes Rostock Wind Energy Forum as a key industry event With more than 300 delegates, the 2nd Rostock Wind Energy Forum was held in the Neptun conference hotel in Rostock-Warnemünde on 9th August 2013. The event therefore surpassed all expectations and has already established itself in its second year as an important neutral knowledge forum for onshore wind energy in the north that brings together representatives from politics, business, industry and research. The host and initiator of the event was eno energy. Its project manager, Kathleen Zander, had her work cut out welcoming the delegates and organising them into the three knowledge forums on Technology + Innovations, Planning and Funding. In each forum, five speakers brought with them highly interesting presentations on current issues ranging from new public share partici-
pation models to innovative tower developments. The event was opened by the incumbent Energy Minister for MecklenburgWestern Pomerania, Volker Schlotmann. He emphasised the regional government’s particular commitment to the wind energy industry as an important economic factor and its intention to create favourable underlying conditions for the further expansion of wind energy turbines. At the same time, however, he urged that all players active in the industry should involve the public in their activities to a much greater extent than was previously the case and thus improve public acceptance. In her welcoming address, the President of the German Wind Energy Association (BWE), Sylvia Pilarsky-Grosch, also referred to the industry’s continu-
ally growing importance to the economy: »Wind energy can take on a flagship role for many industrial sectors. Furthermore, when a good economic policy positively supports corporate decisions, the whole country benefits.« However, when it came to the public acceptance of wind energy, Sylvia Pilarsky-Grosch threw the ball back into the government’s court. »In general it can be said for all renewable energies that we wouldn’t need to fear any comparison with conventional fuels if the external costs were at last honestly factored in. Wind turbines can be removed without trace; the everlasting burden of nuclear energy can – as the name suggests – never be removed.« Several of the invited experts also addressed the government’s current approach to handling the energy turna-
The magazine for success with wind
round, whereby it became clear that the acceptance for the energy turnaround was currently being endangered by specific factors. In particular these include an EEG Act that will be without any steering effect if no progress is made in regulating the expansion of renewables in conjunction with a reduction in conventional power plant capacities. »Wind energy should be created where it is sensible and is wanted,« said event moderator Stephan Schröder in adding to the acceptance debate. »That’s why the early involvement of all stakeholders in the planning process is essential.« However, the managing director of Notus Energy sees the greatest problem when planning wind farms in the lack of scientifically founded nature conservation expertise and demanded: »Species conservation must be better organised and implemented as a whole. In this regard universities and organisations can provide help and contribute to a more factually grounded public dialogue.« Beyond the discussion on energy policy issues, enough room was provided for presenting funding topics, planning solu-
tions and technical innovations. Project manager Zander was very satisfied with the quality of the symposium: »We had a wealth of highly informative lectures in our three knowledge forums.« Thorsten Herdan, managing director and energy policy spokesman for the Association of German Machinery and Plant Manufacturers (VDMA), is on the whole confident about the future. »The German wind industry is very well placed in a difficult global market. The first six months of 2013 showed a positive trend, not just
q S ailing cruise on the Baltic Sea
for the German market but also globally. In future it will be particularly important to increase the quality of wind power. This is where technical solutions are called for that make electricity available on demand. The Wind Energy Forum in Rostock was precisely the right forum for this discussion and I look forward to its continuance in 2014.« The event came to a glorious end with an evening cruise on the Baltic Sea, which lasted for several hours. All the forum delegates were invited to the event, which was held on two large sailingships with music and catering and excellent sailing weather. »The mix of current expertise and a certain exclusivenessthat fosters personal discussion makes the Rostock Wind Energy Forum unique, particularly in view of the Hanse Sail regatta that is taking place at the same time,« explains KathleenZander, who has already scheduled the follow-upevent for 8th August 2014. This will coincide with eno energy’s 15th anniversary. »Delegates can therefore alreadylook forward to several special surprises,« promises Kathleen Zander.
eno in a new dress Some customers or partners of eno energy might have already noticed: the company is now wearing a fresh, new outfit and has fully revised its corporate design. The base colour for brochures, business cards, roll ups and company cars is now an elegant and bright shade of grey. In addition, there is the well-known bright eno red, which will be used in a more economical and accentuated way in the future. The logo, no longer with dots and thus is easier to write, is now combined with the type designation on
new turbines. Even a layman will be able to distinguish an eno 82 with a high tower from an eno 100. However, the nacelles will retain their base colour of white, which is specified by the applicable guidelines for day and night marking of aviation obstacles. One of the first measures in the new design was redesigning the eno website, which has already been ensuring an adequate online representation for several months now. All other individual measures are being worked on relentlessly so that
the company will be able to present its new dress in 2014.
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Efficient wind farms. For a clean future. It is our goal to make wind energy more efficient. Economic success of renewable energies and the growing importance of climate protection go hand in hand. Our contribution to the success of the energy turnaround. Contact: sales@eno-energy.com
eno 82
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2.05 MW IEC lla
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