Wind turbines all share the same goal—harness the wind and generate clean energy. But when it comes to maintaining them, offshore and onshore turbines are two very different beasts.
From weather conditions and logistics to safety measures and corrosion control, offshore wind turbine maintenance presents unique challenges that require specialized skills and equipment. At Solwinda, we’ve worked in both environments—and we know exactly what it takes to keep turbines running smoothly, no matter where they’re installed.
One of the biggest differences between offshore and onshore wind farm maintenance is the environment itself. Offshore turbines face salt-laden air, higher humidity, stronger winds, and rougher storms. These conditions can delay maintenance schedules and increase wear on components—especially blades, nacelles, and external coatings.
Onshore turbines, while still exposed to the elements, benefit from easier forecasting, better access to roads, and less extreme corrosion. Weather is still a factor, but it’s more manageable compared to unpredictable offshore marine conditions.
Getting to an offshore turbine is a full operation. It requires boats, helicopters, or service operation vessels (SOVs), along with strict coordination around sea conditions, tides, and safety windows.
Onshore turbines, in contrast, can often be accessed by vehicle—allowing for faster response times and more flexibility when scheduling inspections or repairs.
Solwinda’s rope access teams are trained to deploy in both cases, but offshore work demands more planning, more resources, and often a longer stay on-site.
Saltwater is a major threat to offshore infrastructure. Turbines at sea experience accelerated corrosion on towers, ladders, platforms, and blade components. This means coating inspections and surface maintenance must happen more frequently—and with stricter attention to detail.
Onshore turbines experience less corrosion overall, but are more exposed to dust, agricultural particles, and inland environmental stress, which can lead to different types of wear and erosion, particularly on blades and tower joints.
Both environments require strict safety standards—but offshore adds extra complexity. Evacuation plans, vessel coordination, and marine weather alerts all factor into daily operations.
Technicians often need GWO Basic Safety Training + offshore survival certifications in addition to IRATA or rope access credentials. Every action offshore is planned with greater redundancy, because the stakes—and the logistics of getting help—are higher.
Solwinda’s teams are equipped to handle both, with a deep understanding of how to navigate offshore risks efficiently and professionally.
We help our clients cut the wind turbine servicing costs with rope access services.
While many of the tools are the same—harnesses, ropes, visual inspection devices—offshore equipment must meet marine-grade standards and be resistant to corrosion and water ingress.
In addition, inspection frequency for offshore turbines is often higher due to environmental exposure. From blade inspections and bolt torque checks to surface coating analysis and electrical component reviews, offshore turbines demand proactive, precision-focused maintenance routines.
At Solwinda, we offer rope access maintenance solutions that are tailored for both settings. Whether it’s a remote field or an offshore platform, our certified teams bring the same commitment to safety, quality, and performance.
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