In this Ekosfera session, screenwriter Marijo Deogracias wants to know more about the reality of the situation of wind power, and INNTERESTING project partners talk about this topic in the framework of our H2020 project.
In the context of energy projects, Marijo mentions the EU Horizon 2020 programme in order to delve into the INNTERESTING project.
Jone, from the Basque Energy Cluster, explains that Basque companies in general take part in strategic Research & Development projects, in collaboration with other entities, so as to tackle the main technological challenges facing the wind power sector. Many wind power projects have been carried out and recently several of them aimed to boost the DIGITALISATION of this sector. The digitalisation of wind turbine components and systems, in addition to optimising their design, reduces operational and maintenance costs, which is one of the main priorities of the industry in Europe. Jone talks about one of the main projects carried out in collaboration with the EU – INNTERESTING (Innovative Future-Proof Testing Methods for Reliable Critical Components in Wind Turbines). Three Basque partners are taking part in this project: technology centre IKERLAN, which is the project leader or coordinator; manufacturer LAULAGUN ; and the Basque Energy Cluster. As for the other partners, three are from Belgium and two are from Finland.
According to Aitor, from LAULAGUN, this project will develop a simplified methodology to test the validation of critical turbine components, and LAULAGUN is working on pitch bearings. Marijo asks about the company’s daily routine. Aitor explains that LAULAGUN designs, manufactures and sells large bearings – specifically, components with an outer diameter of 1-6 metres Pitch bearing is one of the most critical parts of a turbine. On the one hand, it is the component that enables the blade to turn, therefore optimising the energy produced. On the other, it is a key part of the machine’s brake, so if it jams, the turbine could catch fire or even collapse. Furthermore, replacing this part is quite expensive, both in terms of finance and human labour, as the blade needs to be dismantled using large cranes. This requires even more effort if it has to be done at sea.
Marijo also asks Aitor whether they are involved in any other wind power projects and he confirms that LAULAGUN is currently working on a series of R&D&I projects, both in the Basque Country and in Europe, and gives a brief explanation of some of them.
Marijo thanks Aitor and Jone for taking part, closes today’s programme and says goodbye to the guests.
Complete podcast on the EITB website 'nahieran':
http://www.eitb.eus/eu/irratia/euskadi-irratia/programak/ekosfera/audioak/osoa/7372926/ekosfera-20200813-agroekologia-eremuaren-garapenerako-aukera/