Competition of the future – working at the Marine Wind Farms. Start of installation and discharge of power to land

In the second part of our cycle, we want to show two concrete examples of professions in this field. The first is the techniques for starting offshore wind farms, the person responsible for launching these impressive structures. The second profession we would like to present is the electrician's technique.

Both of these professions play key roles in the construction and operation of wind farms. The launch of the offshore wind farm must be preceded by system tests. It is also necessary to prepare equipment to bring power to shore, so that electricity produced by offshore power plants can reach customers on land.

Starting technique for offshore wind farms

Working at offshore wind farms, as techniques for starting offshore wind farms, is one of the most important specialists in the process of launching and maintaining wind farm infrastructure. Its task is to ensure the efficiency of all components of the farm, from power systems to mechanical systems. In the course of his work, starting techniques are responsible for conducting critical tests, documenting the results and reporting the technical condition of the equipment.

Its role requires proficiency in the use of diagnostic tools such as meters and oscilloscopes, as well as the ability to work with complex systems installed in wind plants and marine transformer stations. The start of the offshore wind farm is a comprehensive process. It covers both the stage of the initial start-up after the construction of the wind farm, and every time the start-up after maintenance repairs already during the operation of the farm. Work technique requires not only deep technical knowledge, but also the ability to manage complex projects and deal with the difficulties that can be encountered in the path to efficient operation of the entire farm.

During the first launch of the offshore wind farm, the start-up technology performs the final assembly, small repairs if necessary, and carries out key critical tests for the operation of systems. This is an important stage, which ensures the subsequent proper operation of the wind farm.

Candidates for this position must have knowledge of electrical engineering and industrial automation, as well as experience of working at sea. This experience may include work on ships or maritime platforms, knowledge of maritime safety procedures and coordination of the work of persons involved in the start-up of offshore wind farms. It is also important to be able to work in difficult conditions, such as strong winds, waves and low temperature, as well as working at altitudes. These professionals are transported to the farm with special high-speed CTV units for crew transport.

Read about other competitions related to offshore wind farms – LINK

The technique of starting offshore wind farms has many challenges. In addition to the technical aspects of work, technicians must take care not only of their own safety, but also of the crew, often working in shift mode, away from home and dealing with difficult weather conditions. The responsibility for installing low and high voltage systems further underlines the importance of precision and accuracy in this role.

On the other hand, this profession offers promising prospects for career development. With the development of the offshore wind energy sector, start-up technicians have the opportunity to participate in training and acquire new skills and further certifications. The possibility of promotion to positions of greater responsibility, such as team leader, opens the way for further career and professional development.

Electrical power supply technician

In order for electricity produced in offshore wind farms to reach land and further to the national electricity grid, it must be brought to land in a reliable and safe manner by cables and a transformer station connected to the National Power System (KSE) located there. For this task there are necessary specialists of electrical technicians, whose task is to prepare power output equipment.

Working at offshore wind farms, as an electrician technician, is a job requiring precision and accuracy, as its effects will depend on the smooth delivery to customers of electricity produced by offshore wind plants. The person working in this profession must hold Group 1 qualification certificate for equipment, installation and electricity network producing, processing, transferring and consuming electricity and certificate confirming advanced English knowledge in a technical context.

The daily responsibilities of specialists working to discharge power from offshore wind farms include supervision of the operation of power stations and lines, and special control of offshore wind farm equipment. The person in that position must also properly manage the technical and operational documentation related to the construction and connection of the equipment and develop and supervise the operation plans for stations and power lines.

An important part of the work of professionals employed in this post is the provision of external service services necessary for the proper operation and repair of equipment and coordination of cooperation with external operators. Their duties also include monitoring the technical condition of equipment, reporting the need to purchase spare parts and consumables. The technician must keep up to date with the latest trends and technical solutions related to the operation of the equipment.

Working in this profession offers many opportunities to develop and participate in innovative projects related to the development of offshore wind farm technologies. Due to the growing demand for renewable energy, the prospects for developing this profession are very promising.

The development of wind farms at sea is a priority for the Polish energy sector, which involves the need to involve more and more specialists to prepare and maintain these equipment. With the implementation of further projects in the Baltic Sea, many new jobs will be created for specialists in this area.

Written by Mariusz Dasiewicz