Discover how MDWind transformed a fire-damaged wind turbine in France through sustainable wind turbine repowering. From dismantling, transport to refurbishment and final installation, see how second-life components secure renewable energy and reduce costs.
In March 2025, a Senvion wind turbine in a French wind farm suffered a serious fire, bringing production to a halt and leaving behind a damaged machine with potential risks for pollution, wasted resources, and decreased profitability. For the owners, it was clear that a sustainable solution was essential.
The solution? Wind turbine repowering with second-life components, handled expertly by MDWind.
When a turbine goes offline due to fire damage, the consequences are more than just lost production days. Components can pose environmental risks if left exposed, and the financial impact can ripple across the entire wind farm. Rather than opting for demolition, the decision-makers chose a path that would reduce waste, control costs, and bring the turbine back to its peak performance. This was the moment where MDWind’s repowering expertise became essential.
By using a dismantled turbine from northern Germany as a source of high-quality spare parts, the project embraced sustainability without compromising efficiency. This approach not only extended the life of valuable components but also underscored a commitment to renewable energy solutions that are both economically and environmentally responsible.
The first step in the repowering journey was carefully dismantling the damaged turbine. This process required meticulous planning to ensure safety, minimize environmental risks, and maintain the integrity of reusable components.
Every main part was carefully removed. The team worked closely with safety and logistics partners, including Peter ADAMS – Transpalux for transport coordination, SARENS for crane operations, and KOOI for site surveillance, ensuring that every action on-site was precise and secure.
This phase was not just about removing damaged parts—it was about preparing for a seamless transformation. By carefully assessing the condition of each component, MDWind laid the foundation for a repowering project that would maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.
Once dismantled, the components needed to be carefully transported and staged for the next steps. Coordinating the logistics of large turbine parts is no small task, but with the right planning, the process ran smoothly.
At this stage, MDWind ensured that all parts were handled safely, organized, and ready for the installation phase. By taking a structured and careful approach, the team minimized risks and ensured that the project could proceed efficiently.
Even with high-quality second-life parts, certain components required repair or replacement to meet operational standards. Together with the customer, MDWind’s engineers evaluated the turbine’s main assemblies and implemented upgrades where necessary.
By replacing worn elements and repairing minor damages (also on the blades), the turbine was prepared to not only return to service but to do so with optimized efficiency. Every decision focused on long-term reliability, energy production, and environmental sustainability. Wind turbine repowering is about more than saving costs—it’s about ensuring the turbine contributes safely and effectively to the renewable energy grid for years to come.
The culmination of this project was the final installation. Blades were lifted into position and the turbine reassembled with precision. MDWind’s project management was executed on schedule, minimizing downtime and restoring production as quickly as possible.
Finally, after finishing and commissioning, the turbine returned to full operational capacity. What once was a damaged, fire-affected machine now stood as a symbol of sustainable energy solutions and innovative repowering practices.
After returning the turbine to full operation, MDWind continued its commitment to ensuring peak performance through the first scheduled maintenance. This included the 500-hour torque check, a critical procedure to verify that all bolts and fasteners are tightened according to manufacturer specifications.
During this phase, our technicians inspected key components, monitored system performance, and addressed any minor adjustments needed after the initial operational period. The check confirmed that the turbine was running safely, efficiently, and within optimal operational parameters.
This project demonstrates that wind turbine repowering is more than a technical solution—it’s a strategic approach to sustainability. By using second-life components, the project minimized waste, reduced environmental impact, and preserved valuable materials that might otherwise have been lost.
The economic benefits were equally significant. By repowering rather than replacing the turbine entirely, the wind farm avoided costly new investments while maintaining energy production. The project also safeguarded renewable energy output, contributing to the long-term goals of the farm and the broader transition to clean energy.
No repowering project succeeds alone. This achievement was made possible thanks to the collaboration of multiple stakeholders:
A very special thanks goes to our client, whose trust and outstanding collaboration made this project truly seamless and rewarding.
From fire to full power, this project exemplifies how MDWind’s wind turbine repowering solutions can transform challenges into opportunities. It’s not just about replacing parts—it’s about reviving projects, protecting the environment, and securing reliable, renewable energy for the future.
For clients and partners looking to embrace sustainable energy strategies, this project highlights what is possible when experience, innovation, and dedication come together. MDWind doesn’t just handle turbines; we handle entire projects, delivering results that last.
From common to complex situations, MDWind is your strategic partner on the lifespan of your turbines, by delivering sustainable, efficient and long-term solutions.
