Transporting wind turbine parts is a crucial and complex process that requires careful planning and coordination. The location of the wind park is chosen based on several factors, including its proximity to roads, as accessibility is crucial. Large components for wind turbines are transported via cargo ships along the river Danube to the port of Pancevo. The timing of these shipments is dependent on the water level of the river, as the parts are heavy and require careful navigation.
Once the components arrive, customs clearance and payment of settlement are completed before they are loaded onto large trucks for transportation to the wind farm’s location. The investor, turbine supplier, and transport operator work together to plan and execute this process. Before any transport takes place, a detailed transport study is conducted to ensure the safety and efficiency of the operation. The necessary permits for the transportation of such a load are acquired, and the traffic police and the Roads of Serbia are informed.
A convoy of 3 to 5 trucks goes together, escorted by the police, and the transport route is marked and analyzed to ensure that every part of the road is suitable for the load. This includes measuring the distance and height of every curve, roundabout, object, and transmission line to ensure that the cargo can pass through without any issues. In some cases, adjustments may need to be made to the roads, including temporary widening in certain areas. The logistics team accompanies the convoy throughout the journey, which may take up to three days as it takes 11 or 12 trucks to carry parts for one turbine.
Once the trucks reach the construction site the police escort is no longer required. Before transporting the wind turbine components, the gravel roads on the site are also carefully analyzed to ensure they are wide enough for the oversized cargo trucks to pass. If necessary, temporary widenings are built, and property relations with owners are settled in advance. Once the transportation is complete, the roads are restored to their original state.
Overall, the transportation of the components of the wind turbine is an expensive and complicated process, but with the right preparation and execution, transporting vital wind turbine components can be done safely and efficiently.