About the project
The challenge
When a major component failure highlighted a broader portfolio risk, Natural Power’s performance, reliability and optimisation (PRO) team were brought in to investigate.
It was clear that a lack of condition and operational data were reducing the visibility of early faults, making it difficult to make fully informed technical and commercial decisions. Without a more structured, evidence-led approach, the client faced increased exposure to unplanned failures, reactive maintenance, and inefficient capital deployment.
Our approach
Natural Power implemented an integrated solution centred on condition-based asset management. This combined technology, specialist engineering insight and coordinated delivery through a single, trusted partner.
This included:
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The deployment of a condition monitoring system (CMS) across all turbines on site
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Continuous monitoring supported by expert engineering interpretation
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A fully coordinated delivery model bringing together:
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Asset management – client interface, strategic oversight and decision support
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Performance and reliability - diagnostics, trend analysis and root cause investigations
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Wider Natural Power specialists – aligned technical input and efficient internal coordination
This approach removed fragmentation, reduced client workload and ensured that data translated directly into practical, value-driven decisions.
How did the approach benefit the client?
When a gearbox issue developed several years later, the benefits of this integrated approach were clear:
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Early warning indicators were identified well in advance
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The issue was diagnosed accurately and proportionately
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Decisions were supported by clear, defensible technical evidence
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A six-figure component replacement was managed in a controlled, planned manner
What could have become a high-risk, unplanned event was instead addressed efficiently, protecting asset value and minimising operational disruption.
Ongoing Value
Because CMS was deployed across the full fleet, all drivetrains are now under continuous monitoring. This provides ongoing insight into asset condition, supports forward maintenance planning and reduces the likelihood of unexpected failures.
Client Benefits
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£100k+ saving
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Earlier detection of developing faults
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Reduced risk of catastrophic component failure
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Early detection of drivetrain issues allows for more up-tower repairs and reduces the probability of secondary damage occurrences
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Improved maintenance planning and cost control
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Stronger evidence to support high-value technical decisions
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Increased confidence in long-term asset performance
Conclusion
This case demonstrates Natural Power’s ability to support its clients throughout the full operational lifecycle of their assets. By combining proactive monitoring, deep technical expertise and integrated asset management, we help clients move from reactive risk to informed control - protecting value today while strengthening long-term fleet resilience.