Wind turbines and ice
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Safety is our priority. It's why we look and think ahead. It’s standard for our wind turbines to be equipped with at least two ice detection systems, usually located in the blades and on the nacelle. When temperatures drop and the air is sufficiently humid, ice can form on the structure and blades of a wind turbine. The detection systems ensure the wind turbines are shut down when ice formation is possible, in accordance with the law.
A watchful eye
Thanks to the detection systems, there’s no ice buildup on any operational wind turbines, preventing any ice throw – the flinging of ice from a rotating turbine.
However, our systems can’t prevent the formation of ice on any stationary wind turbines or freezing downpour from sticking to the frosted structures of our turbines. Ice formation on the blades and structure (tower and nacelle) of the wind turbine may lead to icy shards falling down.
The Storm Operations Team, in charge of making sure our wind farms are running smoothly, keeps close tabs in all circumstances.
However, our systems can’t prevent the formation of ice on any stationary wind turbines or freezing downpour from sticking to the frosted structures of our turbines. Ice formation on the blades and structure (tower and nacelle) of the wind turbine may lead to icy shards falling down.
The Storm Operations Team, in charge of making sure our wind farms are running smoothly, keeps close tabs in all circumstances.
Sidestepping risks
As proscribed by law, our wind turbines are only restarted after a visual checkup confirms the blades are free of ice. For this, a trained Storm representative visits the site to conduct an inspection according to established protocols and in consultation with the Operations Team.
Because ice fall is a risk we can never rule out, we set up warning signs inside the ice fall zone to inform passers-by. During normal passage, the risk is very low but we consistently ask people not to linger in the ice fall zone for longer than necessary during subzero conditions.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch in case of further questions.
Because ice fall is a risk we can never rule out, we set up warning signs inside the ice fall zone to inform passers-by. During normal passage, the risk is very low but we consistently ask people not to linger in the ice fall zone for longer than necessary during subzero conditions.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch in case of further questions.
