As wind farms trend larger and larger, the need to create effective, cost-efficient site access plans for these construction projects becomes even more critical. To assist wind energy developers in developing access plans that meet project requirements and address common site issues, United Rentals has published the e-book How to Solve Site Access Challenges on Wind Projects.

This how-to resource lays out tips for working with a full-service access provider and best practices for choosing and installing access mats. Using this guide, companies can reduce the risk of safety incidents, shrink the access budget and avoid project delays. Below is a glance at some of the topics covered.

Factors to consider when developing an access plan

Among the factors to consider when developing an access planfor a wind farm site are:

• The soil and terrain
• The type and size of equipment to be used
• The materials to be transported
• The frequency of temporary road use
• The length of the project
• Environmental regulations
• The presence of sensitive ecosystems

Creating safe access through challenging terrain

When the site terrain is challenging, access mats are often the best way to boost safety while keeping projects moving. The right mats can reduce the risk of vehicle and equipment tip-overs on uneven or unstable terrain. In muddy conditions, they can help prevent vehicles and heavy equipment from getting stuck.

For temporary access roads, 12-inch-thick timber mats are a popular choice thanks to their exceptional durability. When equipment must cross wetlands or marshes, engineered hardwood mats that float are often a smart alternative. For lighter-duty work areas, leveraging composite mats or cross-laminated timber (CLT) mats can reduce the matting budget.

Supporting cranes and their loads

As turbines get larger, so do the vehicles and cranes needed to transport and install them. Access roads must safely support their weight.

To support the crane and its load at the turbine installation site, a suitable work platform is essential. Crane platforms constructed from crane mats help prevent crane tip-overs and resulting injuries. An access partner may leverage these extra-long, 12-inch-thick timber mats, installing them in layers. These platforms can be relocated to the next installation site once a turbine is installed.

Limiting restoration costs

Renewable energy developers are typically responsible for restoring the site to its original condition at the end of wind farm construction. By taking appropriate steps during construction, they can minimize damage to the ground and reduce the amount of restoration work required.

A knowledgeable access partner can implement measures to control erosion and choose mats that distribute downward pressure to prevent soil compaction and protect sensitive ecosystems.

The sooner an access partner is brought in to create an access plan, the more project owners can benefit from expert insights that could save time and money. Early collaboration also enables accurate mat forecasting and helps ensure that the type and number of access mats needed will be readily available despite supply chain issues.

Planning a wind farm project? Download the e-book How to Solve Site Access Challenges on Wind Projects now.