Symposium  /  February 25, 2026  -  February 26, 2026

Symposium on Innovations in Drones and Autonomous Systems for Wind Park Operations

As the wind energy sector experiences rapid growth, ensuring a reliable and resilient energy system relies heavily on the operational integrity of wind turbines, both onshore and offshore. The increasing size and complexity of these turbines present significant challenges for inspection and maintenance, compounded by a growing shortage of skilled experts in the field. Autonomous systems, such as drones and underwater robots, offer promising solutions to enhance the efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness of turbine inspections, thereby contributing to the reliability of the energy system.

This symposium will convene scientists, researchers, and industry experts to explore the latest advancements in technologies for wind turbine inspection and maintenance across various environments. The program will focus on innovative inspection methods, challenges in maintenance within offshore and onshore environments, successful repair strategies, and the integration of robotics and automation. Additional topics will include the training and qualification of service personnel, as well as sustainability and environmental protection during inspection and repair activities.

By fostering collaboration between industry and academia, the event aims to enhance understanding of these innovative solutions and their relevance to the future of wind energy operations. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue and contribute to the exploration of how autonomous systems can improve the performance and sustainability of wind parks, regardless of their location.

 

Key Topics:

  • Latest technologies in the inspection of offshore wind turbines
  • Risk management and maintenance strategies
  • Automation and the use of drones and underwater robots
  • Training and qualification for service personnel
  • Sustainability and environmental protection during repair and maintenance

 

Participants:

  • Sector experts from the international wind energy industry
  • Representatives from operating companies
  • Scientists and research groups
  • Manufacturers of inspection and repair equipment
  • Policy makers and environmental organizations

 

Program Overview:

Day 1: 10:00 to 17:30, Evening program from 19:30

Welcome and Introduction

Keynote: Automation Future of Wind Energy O&M (Marcus Ihle, O&M Innovation & Conception at EnBW)

Session 1: Robotics and Automation in Inspection and Maintenance

  • Keynote Session 1: Tomas Jansen (Product Manager O&M Automation for Vattenfall's offshore wind assets (Vattenfall))

Lunch Break

Session 2: Innovative Inspection Methods

  • Keynote Session 2: PhD Xiao Chen (DTU)

Coffee Break

Session 3: Case Studies Automation in Wind Park Operation

Optional: Evening Program: International Networking Dinner with Cultural Entertainment (Ratskeller Bremen) and a Remote Inspection Demo by Voliro

 

Day 2: 9:00 to 13:00 with lunch option from 13:00 to 14:30

Session 4: Challenges in Maintenance within Offshore Environments

Coffee Break

Session 5: Training and Qualification of Service Personnel

Keynote Session 5: Dr. Falk Götten (Luftfahrt Bundesamt)

Panel Discussion: Enhance Reliability of Wind Energy by Automated Inspections and Maintenance Methods

Open Discussion and Lunch