www.hpmag.co.uk HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS July/August 2025 25 fragmented, more complex and costly. Stefan Hufnagl, Industry Specialist Energy at automation supplier COPA-DATA explains that platforms like COPADATA’s zenon address this by providing a unified, vendor-agnostic control environment. They integrate assets across hardware types, operational domains and generations, enabling centralised monitoring, automation and data analysis - creating the interconnectedness needed for scalable and profitable operations. Wind farms also rely on seamless coordination between complex systems: turbines, substations, monitoring systems and grids. Without unification, data silos and disjointed systems limit performance. Smart platforms harmonize data across these systems, improving situational awareness and ensuring compliance with changing regulations. These platforms are built to handle vast volumes of operational data from distributed assets. Hufnagl says zenon, for instance, enables centralised control and monitoring for visibility across multiple sites, turning complex data into actionable insights to keep operations smooth and predictable. Predictive power The shift towards predictive maintenance strategies further highlights how fundamental intelligent software systems are becoming across the energy sector. By using sensors, predictive analytics and automated event logging, operators can move from reactive troubleshooting to intuitive, proactive asset management. This allows for the detection of early signs of equipment stress, preventing costly downtime. In an industry where asset availability directly impacts profitability, this protects energy output and lowers the long-term lifecycle costs, turning maintenance excellence into a competitive advantage. Predictive maintenance is just one example of how data transforms wind operations. By analysing long-term production trends alongside environmental conditions, operators can identify underperformance or degradation, schedule inspection windows and maintain high availability - all of which are essential for profitability and regulatory compliance. Adaptive control systems also play a role in managing the intermittency of wind which often results in energy spikes or uneven loads. These systems adjust turbine output in real time, balancing power production with grid demands and protecting equipment from overstrain. As wind encompasses a larger share of the grid, these systems are vital for stability. Future-proof automation must balance technical, commercial, and regulatory needs. With platforms like zenon, operators can bridge the gap between plant performance and grid integration. Together, these technologies create an agile, connected operation able to stay ahead in a fast-growing industry. Looking ahead Wind energy is a huge success story in the renewable revolution, but the journey doesn’t stop here. Meeting both future energy needs and climate targets will require not only more turbines, but smarter, more connected systems. The future of wind will rely on sustained investment in infrastructure, innovation and digital tools. With effective policy, advanced technology and global collaboration, we can keep building windmills to harness the winds of change for a cleaner, more secure future. For further information please visit: https://www.copadata.com/
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