25 March 2025

The development of wind farms in Europe and the role of height work specialists

Wind Energy and Rope Access in the Wind Power Industry

Wind energy in Europe is developing at an exceptionally dynamic pace. Wind farms are one of the key elements of the energy transition, helping to reduce CO₂ emissions and decrease dependence on fossil fuels. However, their construction and maintenance require specialized skills — especially in the field of working at heights. Technicians servicing wind turbines often rely on rope access and industrial climbing techniques to ensure the safe and efficient operation of these modern structures.

Wind Energy in Europe – Current Situation

Europe is the world leader in wind energy production. According to the 2023 WindEurope report, the EU had over 255 GW of installed wind capacity, accounting for around 17% of total electricity generation. Countries such as Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, Denmark, and France are leading in wind technology development, while Poland and other Central and Eastern European countries are rapidly expanding their wind power infrastructure.

Onshore and Offshore Wind Farms

Most wind turbines in Europe are located on land, but offshore wind energy is growing the fastest. Turbines installed in the North Sea, the Baltic Sea, and the Atlantic Ocean generate more power thanks to stronger and more stable winds. However, work at such heights in offshore environments is particularly challenging — harsh weather conditions, distance from the coast, and limited access make rope access services essential for the effective operation of offshore wind farms.

Working at Heights on Wind Turbines

Construcion and Installation

Erecting wind turbines is a complex process that demands precision and experience. Modern turbines often exceed 100 meters in height, and rotor blades can reach lengths of over 80 meters. Installing such large structures requires the use of specialized equipment and high-altitude work, often involving rope access techniques.

Maintenance and Servicing

Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure the performance and safety of wind turbines. Rope access technicians perform tasks such as:

Visual and structural inspections,
Blade repair and replacement,
Painting and anti-corrosion protection,
Cleaning turbines and panels,
Installing additional equipment and sensors.

Rope access methods allow workers to quickly and efficiently reach difficult-to-access areas without cranes or scaffolding.

Emergency Repairs

Turbines can sometimes be damaged by extreme weather — strong storms, hail, or ice. In such cases, rope access teams play a key role by responding rapidly to breakdowns and minimizing downtime in energy production.

Rope Access in the Wind Energy Sector

Rope access is a technique that enables work in areas inaccessible to traditional platforms or cranes. It is widely used in the wind energy sector because it offers:

Time efficiency – specialists can reach the damaged area quickly without setting up scaffolding,
Cost reduction – eliminating the need for crane rental or heavy equipment lowers operational costs,
Increased safety – certified gear and modern rope techniques minimize accident risk.

Challenges of Working at Heights on Wind Farms

Working on wind turbines presents numerous challenges:

Extreme weather conditions – strong winds, low temperatures, and precipitation can delay or halt operations, especially offshore.
Fall risk – while rope access is a safe method, it requires strict adherence to safety procedures and certified equipment.
Isolation – offshore technicians often work far from shore, requiring specialized training in rescue and first aid.
High technical demands – maintenance tasks require not only height skills but also knowledge of electromechanics and aerodynamics.

The Future of Wind Energy and High-Access Services

The wind energy sector will continue to expand, driving demand for specialists in high-access work. By 2030, the European Union aims to reach 450 GW of installed wind capacity, meaning hundreds of new wind farms and thousands of turbines to maintain. In the future, automation and robotics will play an increasingly significant role — but human expertise in industrial rope access will remain indispensable.

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