In recent years, significant growth in offshore wind across the world is pushing us toward a cleaner, green future, and the number of offshore wind farms around the UK is set to quadruple over the next decade.

Currently, the UK has 2,500 offshore wind turbines which produced 12% of the nation’s electricity last year. If UK offshore wind farms do increase four-fold in the next 10 years, an estimated 3,200 new, and much larger, wind turbines will be needed by 2030 – roughly three new turbines every two days. Large wind turbines, located in increasingly deep waters off our coasts, are designed to make the most of our vast offshore energy resources, but they present unique challenges for operation and maintenance.

However, this could all change with the advent of digital twin technology. This technology creates cutting-edge virtual models of wind turbines that replicate their physical counterparts in real-time and could revolutionise their operation, maintenance and management.

Real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance
One of the key advantages of digital twin technology is its ability to provide up to date monitoring and predictive maintenance for offshore wind farms. This concept is not a new one, but advances in data and digital twin technologies have completely transformed the ways in which we can achieve these goals.

By integrating data sources such as sensors, weather forecasts and historical data with artificial intelligence (AI) models, digital twins create a comprehensive virtual representation of a wind farm. This allows operators to monitor the performance of individual turbines, detect anomalies and identify potential issues before they escalate.

Digital twins enable predictive maintenance by analysing vast amounts of data and using this to predict the health of the wind turbines, identify maintenance requirements and optimise repair schedules. This proactive approach minimises downtime, reduces maintenance costs and ensures optimal performance throughout the lifetime of the wind farm.

Digital twins facilitate scenario-based simulations that enable operators to assess the impact of various factors on the performance of a wind farm.

Improved operational efficiency
The development of this data-driven technology empowers wind farm operators to optimise their operations and maximise energy output. By simulating different scenarios and analysing performance data, operators can identify efficiency improvements and fine tune parameters such as turbine alignment and power generation to achieve optimal energy production.

Furthermore, digital twins provide remote operation and control, reducing the need for a physical – and often costly – presence at offshore wind farms. Operators can monitor and control turbines from onshore locations, eliminating the challenges associated with operations and maintenance in remote and harsh environments. This not only enhances safety but also reduces operational costs.

Enhanced risk management
Digital twins play a crucial role in mitigating risks associated with offshore wind farms. By incorporating real-time weather data and predictive models, operators can anticipate and respond to adverse conditions effectively. Digital twins simulate and analyse the impact of extreme weather events, enabling operators to optimise turbine settings and adapt operational strategies accordingly. This proactive approach reduces the potential for damage, extends the lifespan of equipment and safeguards the investment in offshore wind farms.

Training and simulation
Digital twin technology offers an invaluable platform for training and simulation. It provides a safe and controlled environment for operators and maintenance personnel, allowing them to familiarise themselves with complex systems and procedures. Training in a virtual environment reduces the risks associated with on-site training and enhances competence within the workforce.

Digital twins facilitate scenario-based simulations that enable operators to assess the impact of various factors on the performance of a wind farm. These simulations help in optimising layout design, turbine placement and operational strategies, ensuring the most efficient and productive configuration for offshore wind farms.

Vital role 
By creating a virtual replica of offshore wind farms, digital twin technology is a game-changer for the offshore wind industry – enabling regular monitoring, predictive maintenance, improved operational efficiency, enhanced risk management, and valuable training and simulation capabilities.

As the technology continues to evolve, digital twins will play a vital role in advancing the sustainability and productivity of offshore wind farms, contributing to a greener, cleaner and more efficient future.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly those of the author only and are not necessarily given or endorsed by or on behalf of the Energy Institute.

To find out more about safety standards in the offshore wind sector, read the G+ 2022 incident data report.