News
EDF Renewables Canada Scales Up Ice Protection for Consistent Winter Operations
To maximize energy production and maintain safe operations during Canada’s harsh winter months, EDF Renewables Canada has made FabricAir’s BorealisWind Ice Protection Systems (IPS) a critical part of its strategy at the Massif du Sud and Lac Alfred wind farms. The IPS prevents ice buildup on wind turbine blades, which can cause substantial operational downtime and safety concerns due to ice throw.
EDF began installing the BorealisWind system at its Lac Alfred wind farm in 2019, initially equipping two turbines. Impressed by the system’s performance, EDF has since expanded the installations at its Massif du Sud site, adding two systems in 2020, three in 2021, and seven more in 2022. This ongoing investment demonstrates EDF’s commitment to mitigating icing issues and ensuring consistent energy production across its Canadian sites, even during the most severe winter conditions.
“We are grateful for the continued trust and partnership with EDF Renewables Canada in addressing the unique challenges of operating wind farms in icy climates,” said Daniela Roeper, P.Eng., Vice President of BorealisWind at FabricAir. “Their commitment to ice protection demonstrates how investing in reliable solutions can enhance operational efficiency and support renewable energy goals.”
As EDF and other industry leaders prioritize comprehensive ice protection, BorealisWind’s system continues to play a pivotal role in keeping turbines operational year-round, setting a new standard for wind energy in cold climates.
About FabricAir and BorealisWind
FabricAir is a global leader in fabric-based air distribution solutions, innovating the HVAC industry since 1973. In 2023, FabricAir expanded their solutions to include blade heating systems for wind turbines. The BorealisWind Ice Protection System (IPS) is a comprehensive system designed for cold climate wind turbines. The BorealisWind product line features a unique “System as a Service” model, which converts CapEx into OpEx, allowing wind farm operators to invest in comprehensive ice mitigation solutions with no upfront costs. The BorealisWind IPS helps wind farms optimize turbine performance, reduce maintenance expenses, and maximize energy production during winter months. To learn more, visit https://www.borealiswind.com/.
