Development work

Establishing a wind farm from the initial preliminary study to taking it into operation takes four to seven years. The project phases are described below.

Pre-planning

In this phase, basic prerequisites are analyzed, such as wind conditions based on wind maps, counterparty interests, terrain conditions and the economic feasibility of grid connections. Leaseholds with land owners are also signed, which are subject to the condition that wind measurements and other analyses in the next phase remain positive. When a contract has been signed with land owners, the project moves to the planning phase.

Planning

In the planning phase, wind measurements begin and the consultation process is initiated with the authorities, organizations and persons affected by the establishment. This is when an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is prepared, which is submitted to the relevant authority together with the application.

Application

Wind farms that are assessed under the Swedish Environmental Code are submitted to the County Administrative Board where the Environmental Protection Department formulates a decision-making proposal for the operation. The County Administrative Board subsequently reaches a decision. A project cannot secure a permit until the municipality has granted its approval. Wind farms that are assessed under the Swedish Planning and Building Act are submitted to the relevant municipality for assessment.

Authorization/Procurement

The focus in this phase is on the procurement of turbines, other engineering, electrical and contracting work, as well as financing. Agreements are also reached with various grid companies. The wind measurements are thoroughly analyzed, which provides documentation for investment and profitability calculations.

Construction

This phase begins with preparatory work on land and the construction of roads. Contractors are appointed for earthworks, while turbine suppliers are responsible for the assembly of wind turbines.

Operation and maintenance

Each turbine adheres to a service and maintenance plan and operations are monitored remotely by both the supplier and Rabbalshede Kraft. A proprietary operation and maintenance organization has been created that today constitutes a strategic core competence in the Company with responsibility for processes that are ISO 9 001 and ISO 14 001 certified. The purpose is to ensure a high degree of accessibility. The supplier offers a warranty of 20-25 years, after which time the turbines can be disassembled and recycled.