Among the various issues that can plague wind turbine gearbox bearings, premature failures with white etching cracks (WECs) stand out as particularly serious. Understanding the drivers of WEC-related failures, and implementing effective countermeasures, is key to extending gearbox bearing life and maintaining operational efficiency.

With over 40 GW of offshore wind in development, including half from floating projects, Scotland is fast becoming the world’s proving ground for next-generation renewables. Backed by billions in investment, the country is now moving from early demonstration to large-scale deployment.

Out in the North Sea, a wind turbine keeps turning, no matter the wind, rain, or crashing waves. But inside, where no one sees, many components keep it running, and few are as critical as the main shaft bearing. If it wears down prematurely, performance declines, maintenance costs rise, and in the worst cases, unplanned downtime follows.

Before gigawatt-scale floating wind farms arrive, Scotland’s 100 MW Salamander project will test the technology, operations, and supply chains needed for deepwater success. It aims to create a model the industry can scale in the decade ahead.

Bearings in wind turbines support the rotating shafts and minimize friction between moving parts. Improper bearing mounting in wind turbines can lead to several serious consequences, affecting both the performance and lifespan of the turbine.

Germany’s onshore wind sector made a strong start to 2025, with first-quarter figures showing faster permitting and rising installation rates. The early momentum points to continued progress in expanding domestic renewable electricity capacity, according to industry agency Wind and Solar.