DEHN presented DEHNsphere at WindEnergy Hamburg, a new digital platform that centrally collects and analyses lightning events recorded on wind turbines and helps operators make data-driven maintenance decisions.
Lightning events are among the key external factors affecting the operational reliability of wind turbines. To assess their impact reliably and plan maintenance measures in line with requirements, operators need robust data and the ability to analyse it quickly.
According to DEHN, lightning strikes can significantly impair the availability and efficient operation of wind turbines. In practice, there is often doubt as to what effect a specific event actually had and whether action is required. Robust data helps assess the damage, enables transparent documentation of events and forms the basis for condition-based maintenance strategies.
DEHNsphere: lightning data in one place
The DEHNsphere cloud solution, DEHN’s focus at the trade fair, collects recorded lightning events centrally, analyses them and provides a clear display of the relevant data. This gives operators a quick overview of recorded incidents and a more in-depth understanding of their potential impact. Configurable notifications, event histories and cloud-based analytics help operators make data-driven decisions regarding inspections and maintenance and plan steps more effectively.
The cloud solution also lays the foundations for integrating additional digital applications and areas of use. According to the company, going beyond lightning monitoring, this will in future make it possible to centralise and evaluate data to ensure safe and cost-effective operation of technical systems.
DEHNdetect provides the data
DEHNsphere uses measured data from the DEHNdetect lightning current measurement system, which records lightning events on the wind turbine itself. Developed specifically for wind turbines, the system is DNV certified and meets the requirements of IEC 61400-24 regarding lightning monitoring for wind turbines.
At WindEnergy Hamburg, held from 22 to 25 September 2026, DEHN used real-life examples at Stand 501 in Hall B6 to show how lightning events are recorded, analysed and taken into account when devising operational and maintenance measures. The company also showcased its engineering services, which help operators assess incidents and develop appropriate measures, as well as ways to inspect installations using drones.
