How does equipment maintenance work the European way?

Next year, things are set to kick into high gear as wind power expands further across Europe. WindEurope predicts an average annual increase of 29 GW by 2030*. Once turbines are installed and connected to the grid, maintenance is required to ensure long-term operation. Is there such a thing as European service? Or does maintenance stop at national borders?

Thinking European and acting as one – as in politics and sport – can also be exciting in wind turbine maintenance. As individuals are different, Europe's diverse cultures characterise the service world. These can include different HSE guidelines, unique remuneration models, different structures, work processes and communication channels. Simultaneously, Europe's countries share common expansion goals, the same turbine technologies, and the same dynamics in the European domestic markets. Lastly, its geographical and human proximity connects the European service industry.

More clarity and responsibility for international business

Deutsche Windtechnik has been answering Europe's call for two decades. In addition to its German operations, it has established eight onshore and two offshore divisions across Europe. The newly formed Deutsche Windtechnik Europe Holding GmbH brought these divisions together in September. The aim is to bring greater clarity and accountability to the organisational structure of this increasingly international company.

Previously, the international units reported to the existing German onshore and offshore divisions. However, rapid growth in the European market necessitated a structural change. With the creation of Europe Holding, they now operate on an equal footing with their German counterparts, enabling the best international solutions to be implemented and strengthening local service and support in each country. "Our overall goal is to better deliver our high standards of excellent global service in the existing European service markets. Operating profitably is a prerequisite for ensuring that we'll still be around in ten years' time," says Europe Holding's new CEO, Carl Rasmus Richardsen.

Strong performance through synergy

Since the holding was established, changes have already begun. The international team of Europe Holding has been expanded to include experts in engineering, operations, sales and contract management, and ERP/process specialists. Fully integrated into daily operations, the team works closely with local management and departments to identify opportunities and synergies. For example, improved mutual support in engineering or better coordination between countries to optimise weekend availability and personnel flexibility.

While some countries will benefit more from these innovations, others are already well-positioned. At the same time, the European and UK units are gaining greater visibility within the group. "We're coming closer together and taking a fresh look at what stabilises us collectively," says Richardsen of the recent changes.

The CEO's role and assembling the 'right' team

"I consider myself an advocate for the European units," says Richardsen, describing his role in the current process. He travels extensively within the company, serving as a link between the parent company in Germany and the European holding. The primary goal is to empower the country units as much as possible and steer them back to profitability. "If I become redundant, I'll know I've done my job right," Richardsen adds. "It's crucial that we have the right teams and sharpen our entrepreneurial focus on what we truly are: a service company!"

This spirit led to the founding of Deutsche Windtechnik 20 years ago by technicians and engineers focused on enhancing equipment servicing. "As management, it is our responsibility to instil this focus within the team, create opportunities for employees to develop, foster teamwork, and encourage open communication on equal terms. In some countries, we've lost this over the past few years," Richardsen admits. To rebuild this foundation and foster this spirit, Richardsen implemented significant changes. Teams are being brought closer together through new office locations and are returning to the offices more often. At the same time, management deliberately hires personnel who share and live this mindset.

"Small successes, such as improved equipment availability, better retention rates, fewer penalties, and positive feedback from our field technicians, show us we're on the right track," Richardsen concludes optimistically.

*https://windeurope.org/intelligence-platform/product/wind-energy-in-europe-2023-statistics-and-the-outlook-for-2024-2030/