Hybrid Energy Solution Deployed to Protect Onshore Wind Farm During Network Outage

A planned network outage threatened to halt operations at an onshore wind farm in Scotland, so engineered energy and temperature solutions provider Aggreko stepped in to supply a rapid, low-emission hybrid energy solution to keep all 13 turbines protected and performing.

Following notification that the installation of a new super transformer would require a planned six-week network outage, the operators of Douglas West Wind Farm in South Lanarkshire, Scotland, required a temporary power solution to keep their 13 turbines operational.

The solution needed to protect assets during grid downtime to prevent moisture build-up in electrical components and limit long-term damage. The turbines also required power to keep the hydraulic systems pressurized and ensure crucial operations like rowing and blade lubrication could be carried out.

Natural Power’s asset management team appointed Aggreko to the project, whose expert team designed and delivered a sustainable hybrid power solution built to reduce both emissions and costs.

Aggreko provided a fleet of BESS and generators fuelled with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), which helped cut emissions by up to 90 %. The site was powered by 13 125 kVA HVO-fuelled generators and 13 120 kWh battery systems.

The solution also utilized Aggreko Remote Management (ARM). This comprehensive, real-time monitoring service uses GPRS technology to transmit real-time data from generators to diagnostics software, providing information to maximize the equipment’s efficiency and runtime at customer sites.

Aggreko’s fuel management service provided scheduled deliveries of fuel throughout, giving peace of mind that the turbines would never be without power.

The installation of the super transformer meant a swift solution was required to ensure operations continued. Craig Fleming, Utilities Sector Sales Manager for the UK and Ireland at Aggreko, said: “Wind now accounts for almost a third of the UK’s electricity, and operators can’t afford disruption. This project shows exactly how Aggreko steps in; delivering engineered, low-emission power solutions that keep critical assets protected, maintain operational integrity, and minimize environmental impact, even during extended grid outages.”

With a ground-to-blade-tip height of 149.9 meters, each of the 13 turbines is capable of producing 3.6 MW.

Video Credit: Aggreko