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Wind generated power

Operation and Maintenance Costs of Wind Generated Power

Wind generated power was responsible for more than 7% of the United States’ national electricity in 2019, with this form of renewable energy continuing to gain popularity. While there doesn’t seem to be an industry standard on operation and maintenance (O&M) costs, it does, however, seem as if these costs will continue to decrease in the years to come.

Operation and maintenance costs  

In 2009, the WindFacts publication found that O&M costs could account for up to 20-25% of the total levelized cost for each kWh produced by a new turbine during its lifetime. More than a decade later, however, these O&M costs are widely considered to be on a downward trajectory for onshore and offshore projects as larger machines are being used and wind turbines are becoming more reliable with the advancement of turbine technology. This, in turn, has triggered manufacturers to offer scheduled and unscheduled maintenance at lower costs than a few years ago. 

These costs are, understandably, difficult to standardise as there are various factors to take into account which will differ from project to project, such as:

  • Turbine service contract
  • Unscheduled maintenance 
  • Insurance
  • Land rent
  • Local taxes
  • Transmission charges
  • Electricity usage

From latest reports, it would seem that the bulk of O&M expenses are influenced by unscheduled breakdowns and the servicing of wind turbines – which can all be controlled by the wind farm owner to a certain extent. One thing’s for certain – the development of turbine technology continues to have a positive effect on O&M costs.  

If you would like to see whether you could save any O&M costs on your wind generated power projects, get in touch with our qualified team at ANEMOI. Our services include gearbox oil changes, scheduled maintenance, manpower augmentation, and retrofits.