Meet Chantal, Our New Master’s Student
How do we decommission or upgrade wind turbines in a sustainable way? That’s the question Chantal, a master’s student in Wind Power Project Management at Uppsala University , is exploring during her time at Fu-Gen. Meet her and learn more about her work on Repowering, Optimisation and the Future of Renewable Energy.
The Future of Renewables – Beyond the New
Understanding the future of renewable energy isn’t just about building new infrastructure – it’s also about taking care of what we already have. This spring, we are happy to welcome Chantal to Fu-Gen, where she’s conducting her master’s thesis focusing on a topic that is often overlooked: Decommissioning and Repowering of onshore wind farms. In short – how we use our resources in a smart and sustainable way.
When Chantal isn’t deep into wind data, regulations, or long-term energy scenarios, you’ll likely find her outside in nature – preferably near the water, chatting with friends at a café, or walking with her family’s 14-year-old dog. Perhaps it’s this combination of structured engineering logic and a deep appreciation for the environment that makes her perspective so valuable in the green transition.
From Hamburg to Gotland – and a Growing Affection for Sweden
Chantal is originally from northern Germany, near Hamburg. After finishing school, she spent a year working and traveling in New Zealand before starting her Industrial Engineering studies in Rostock. In her final year, she studied at Umeå University as an exchange student – an experience that left a lasting impression.
– I absolutely loved my time in Sweden and knew I wanted to return, Chantal says. Later in my career, when I wanted to specialise in wind power, I found the one-year Wind Power Project Management programme at Uppsala University, Campus Gotland – it was a perfect match.
She describes the programme as unique: a chance to dive deep into wind power – from technology to legislation – alongside students from around the world.
How Can We Use Our Resources Sustainably?
At Fu-Gen, Chantal’s thesis explores what happens when a wind turbine reaches the end of its operational life. Many of the earliest wind farms in Sweden and across Europe are now approaching their end-of-lifetime, meaning important decisions must be made: should we decommission – or repower?
– These are still quite new questions in the sector. What does it cost to dismantle a turbine? What regulations must be followed? At the same time, there’s great potential in repowering – infrastructure is already in place, dialogue with the local community is established, and over 20 years of wind data is available.
Chantal is taking a theoretical approach in her work, using both academic and industry sources. The goal is to provide a clear and accessible overview that helps stakeholders make well-informed and sustainable decisions that serves the community in a good way.
Knowledge the Industry Needs – Now
As more wind turbines reach the end of their operational lifespan, there’s an increasing need for strategic thinking and decision support. Chantal’s thesis helps fill an important knowledge gap – covering economic, technical, and regulatory aspects of both decommissioning and repowering.
– It’s about making the most of the resources we already have, she explains. Giving decision-makers a solid foundation to make the right calls – and supporting a smarter, more sustainable energy transition.
What’s Next?
Once the thesis is complete, Chantal would like to stay in Sweden and keep on contributing to the transition away from fossil fuels. She’s looking for a role in Asset Management or within the Financial side of Project Development – where she can combine her technical and economic background with her passion for renewables.
We’re proud to support Chantal’s journey and look forward to sharing more of her insights along the way!
