Success Metrics for Operational Readiness in Wind turbines : From Project phase to Early Operational Phase

Abstract

This thesis investigated how success is defined and measured across the three transition phases of wind turbine installation (1) project execution, (2) commissioning, and (3) early operations.

The research was conducted using a qualitative approach, collecting primary data through semi-structured expert interviews with four wind energy professionals: a project manager, a commissioner, an operations manager, and a lead technician. The interview data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis structured within the DMAIC framework.

DMAIC framework was used to show how success measurement develops throughout the whole cycle. It illustrates how success is defined, measured, analysed, improved, and control during the project to operational phase. It was also used to structure the interview and to analyse the findings.

The Integrated Operational Readiness Framework (IORF) for wind turbine installation is the researchers’ proposed framework for assessing operational readiness. The framework is structured around three pillars: a shared success definition across all three phases, a structured handover and organisational readiness, and formalised cross-functional collaboration. The framework is supported by both interview findings and established literature.

The primary limitation of this research is the small interview sample of four participants, and the fact that the proposed framework has not yet been tested in a real organisational setting. Future research is recommended to validate the framework in practice, explore offshore wind turbines, and investigate the financial implications of improved operational readiness measurement using quantitative research.