Pilot Tests Prepare High Voltage Training for Launch

The second pilot training for the GWO High Voltage Operations module has been delivered at RelyOn’s flagship training centre in the UK. RelyOn has developed a comprehensive training programme aligned with this new standard, which provides wind technicians with the knowledge and safety skills needed to operate in high voltage (HV) environments across onshore and offshore wind farms.

As the first part of the overall High Voltage Standard, the High Voltage Operations module covers system fundamentals, hazard awareness, legal compliance, operational protocols and human factors, ensuring a standardised, safety-first approach to HV work. Conducting a second round of pilots at RelyOn allowed for a thorough evaluation of whether learning objectives were met, lesson timings were accurate and the equipment was adequate for training purposes.

The GWO High Voltage Standard consists of the following elements:
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• Overview of Windfarm High Voltage Systems: Wind Turbine Generator (WTG) to Grid

• HV Energy Systems and Equipment

• Hazards and Risk Awareness in HV Environments

• Overview of Safety and Control Measures in HV Environments

• Rules and Regulations

• HV Operations and Communications

• Introduction to Duties, Roles and Responsibilities

• HV Tools and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Human Factors – Safety Mindset and Attitude

Commenting on the pilot, Nicola Yates, Head of Sector - Energy Transition at RelyOn, said:

The development of this standard is the result of collaboration initiated by GWO, aimed at harmonising HV operational training across the global wind sector. It's been great having the team from GWO and stakeholders at our electrical training centre in North East England. The range of HV equipment at the facility aims to replicate real-world operating facilities, and allows us to deliver practical, scenario-based learning in a safe and controlled environment.

Thomas Redmond, Training Project Manager at GWO, added:

Piloting GWO training standards is an essential quality assurance step in the training development process. We appreciate the efforts of global training providers who dedicate time and resources in helping us demonstrate that our training standards meet market need and allow us to do our due diligence to a good level of quality. The GWO High Voltage Standard can support GWO training providers in delivering training designed to maximise the potential of high voltage systems to improve safety and efficiency in renewable energy generation. The insights gained during this pilot will be invaluable in refining the High Voltage Operations module.

What comes next?

This pilot concludes the testing phase for HV Operations. With the pilot completed, GWO will now finalise the new standard based on the lessons learned in each pilot and prepare for publication. The result will be a globally recognised training standard that supports safer high voltage operations across the industry.