About the project
During the autumn of 2023, the National Grid informed our client, Greencoat UK Wind, that there would be a scheduled six-week localised network outage effecting their wind farm at Douglas West in South Lanarkshire. The wind farm comprises of 13 Vestas V-136 machines with a tip height of 149.9m. Working closely with Vestas and the client, Natural Power understood that a reliable, sustainable and alternative power source would be required to keep the turbines running and prevent any long-term damage from lying idle.
What was the aim of the work?
Natural Power went out to the market to find generators that could provide power the turbines during the network outage. Providing the temporary power needed would prevent moisture build-up in the electrical components of the turbine which reduces the threat of long-term damage. The client was keen to minimise any emissions that may be produced during the period of use while also remaining cost effective. Aggreko was able to offer a range of solutions that included hybrid generators with batteries and non-hybrid generators. They were also able to offer a variety of fuel types.
What was the outcome?
The team were able to come up with a solution by using clean, sustainable power to reduce emissions and costs. the client opted for 13 hybrid generators fuelled by HVO. HVO or hydrotreated vegetable oil is an advanced biofuel that offers a fossil- free alternative to mineral diesel which can result in a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of up to 90% compared to fossil diesel. They faced a few challenges along the way due to the remote location of the site, logistics and ensuring equipment remained stable while providing consistent power with minimal voltage and frequency fluctuations.
What did Natural Power do to get this result?
Natural Power’s asset management team worked closely with Aggreko to ensure that the generators would be fit for purpose, minimise emissions and present real value for money for the client. The teams successfully completed this challenge and avoided long term damage to the turbines while staying cost effective and environmentally friendly!