Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Surplus wind energy can be retained in battery storage systems or transferred to neighboring regions via high-voltage lines.

Yes, wind turbines can be connected to existing power grids. However, updates or extensions may be required in order to manage the excess energy load. 

Yes, it is possible to disconnect wind turbines from the grid for network updates or maintenance works. However, careful planning is required in such instances in order to avoid power outages.

Wind turbines connected to a power grid are a reliable source of renewable electricity, reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and may help in stabilizing electricity prices.

Wind turbines operate best at a constant wind flow but are also able to produce electricity at varying wind speeds. Typically, the wind flow is between 7 mph and 56 mph (11 km/h to 90 km/h).

The integration of wind turbines into existing power grids requires a connection to a transformer substation, the management of voltage stability and variable frequency as well as the accordance with existing grid regulations. 

The infrastructure includes transformer substations, and also supply lines and convertors in order to connect the turbines to the main power grid. 

Regulatory requirements may vary according to region but generally include official licenses, general accordance with regulatory requirements and the proof of environmental compatibility by passing an environmental impact assessment (EIA). 

Suitable sites for wind turbines are identified based on available data pertaining to wind velocity, the availability of property, and having a minimal impact on the environment. In each case thorough feasibility studies are conducted. 

Transportation includes the handling of large components such as blades and towers which need to be hauled from the productions sites to the implementation sites using special-purpose vehicles and designated routes. 

Wind turbines are anchored in the ground using concrete foundations that ensure stability and defy various weather conditions. 

In general, a distinction can be made between off-shore and on-shore turbines. In addition, there are different sizes of rotor blades and generators to adapt the turbines to the respective environmental conditions.

Periodical maintenance includes the inspection and upkeep of mechanical and electrical components. This is necessary in order to ensure efficient performance and long product lifecycles. 

Periodical maintenance includes the inspection and upkeep of mechanical and electrical components. This is necessary in order to ensure efficient performance and long product lifecycles. 

The costs of building wind turbines may vary significantly depending on the size of the turbines, the location as well as the logistics. In general, however, the cost may range between several hundred thousand to millions of Euros per turbine.

The lead times for building a wind turbine may vary according to its size and the complexity of the project from a few weeks to several months.

While there may be an impact on birds and bats, it is possible to mitigate such effects by choosing suitable locations and implementing mitigation measures. Studies show that the effects of wind turbines are marginal compared to other human activities that impact the environment.

The time it takes for a wind turbine to compensate for the CO2 emissions that were caused as part of the production process is between 6 and 12 months. After that the wind turbines produces electricity for the rest of its product life without any additional CO2 emissions. 

Moderne wind turbines are designed to minimize noise. Often the noise level of a wind turbine is comparable with a hushed conversation or wind noises.

Wind parks alter the landscape. However, in order to mitigate the impact on the scenery wind parks must undergo an environmental impact assessment (EIA).

Yes, approximately 90% of the components of a wind turbine are re-cyclable. There is ongoing research on improved re-cycling methods for wind turbine components such as the blades. 

While in use, wind energy does not produce any air pollution or greenhouse gases. Wind energy also helps to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and thereby assists in the fight against climate change.

Studies show that – if the site is conscientiously chosen and carefully monitored – offshore wind parks only have marginal effects on marine life.

While wind parks may influence local ecosystems, a thorough environmental impact assessment as well as mitigation measures contribute to minimizing these effects.

Re-powering encompasses upgrading existing wind turbines with new, more efficient models, in order to increase their energy production capacity and to improve the life-cycle length of the wind park overall.

Re-powering increases energy efficiency reduces the demand for the development of new sites, and minimizes environmental impacts. 

Re-powering helps in reducing the operating expenses, increasing the reliability, and creating new employment opportunities in the production and maintenance of turbines.

Re-powered wind turbines may increase the operating duration of a wind park for 20 to 25 years or even longer.

Yes, re-powering is cost efficient since existing infrastructure is used thereby reducing the cost for new installations.

Technical challenges include the integration of new technologies into existing systems, ensuring structural compatibility and the handling of down-times during upgrades.

Re-powering typically increases the energy production through the use of more efficient turbines and the optimization of turbine positioning.

Regulations include environmental impact assessments (EIA), building regulations and specifications regarding grid connection which vary according to the respective federal province.