Offshore wind farm life management and lifetime extension (OWLIFE)

DNV is calling for partners to start a new joint industry project (JIP) aimed at creating a comprehensive technical framework for life management and lifetime extension (LTE) of offshore wind farms.

This collaborative initiative will bring together key industry players - including project developers, operators, wind turbine manufacturers, designers, product and service providers, and other stakeholders - to address the challenges and opportunities presented by extending the operational life of offshore wind turbines and related assets.

As a significant number of offshore wind farms in Denmark, Germany, and the UK approach the end of their original 20 to 25-year design life, the question of how to efficiently and safely operate them beyond this period is becoming increasingly urgent. The JIP will develop offshore-specific guidance on LTE, bridging current gaps in industry standards and procedures. By providing transparency and clarity to operators, engineers, and regulators, the project aims to facilitate well-informed decisions regarding the viability of extending the life of offshore wind farms.

Project scope

The technical framework that will support the decision to be taken by the operators and owners of an offshore wind farm (OWF) during the project lifecycle is anticipated to consist of a set of elements that relate to each other: 

All those elements will be addressed in dedicated work packages while the integration of analytical and practical aspects into a holistic concept will also be part of the project. 

DNV’s standard DNV-ST-0262 provides a robust framework for evaluation of the extended lifetimes of wind turbines. However, to ensure this standard reflects the latest insights and technological advancements in offshore wind energy, the JIP will work to refine and enhance this document, ensuring it remains relevant and up to date. 

Commercial aspects will also be considered as they will finally be decisive on the wind farm owner/operator's plans.

Timeline

The project will start in Q3 2025 and is expected to last 2.5 years.