Solutions for Sustainable Development

The Role of SGS in Accelerating the Transition to Green Energy

The renewable energy industry plays a major role in global efforts to achieve sustainability, contributing 95% to the projected growth of global electricity production capacity by 2027, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). The development of wind and solar farms and the implementation of sustainable environmental practices have become top priorities for governments, investors, and communities. However, site planning, technical challenges during the construction phase and compliance with stringent regulations throughout the operational phase can slow the progress of such projects.

 

Challenges in the Era of Green Energy

In the development process of renewable energy projects, companies may face various obstacles, such as local regulatory complexity, lack of the necessary technical expertise for project management and construction supervision and the need for effective Health, Safety, and Environment Management (HSE).

Vasile Brădoaia, Health & Safety Department Coordinator at SGS Romania

Working conditions and employee safety are a priority given the risks associated with constructing and operating complex infrastructures like large-scale wind turbines and solar parks. These challenges force companies to adopt well-grounded approaches, closely collaborate with partners, and prioritize each phase of projects to ensure successful outcomes” says Vasile Brădoaia, Health & Safety Department Coordinator at SGS Romania.

Companies in this sector navigate a complex operational environment. Selecting sites for renewable projects involves detailed analyses of natural resource potential and impact assessments on communities. Additionally, rising costs and fragile global supply chains require meticulous planning and flawless execution.

 

SGS’s Contribution to the Success of Renewable Energy Projects

SGS, a global leader in inspection, verification, and certification, addresses the needs of the renewable energy industry through a wide range of specialized services. With a client-oriented approach tailored to each project’s specific needs, SGS offers a comprehensive portfolio of services that covers the entire lifecycle of renewable energy projects:

  1. APQP4 Wind Training and Solutions (ATIS) Framework – APQP4Wind is an advanced product quality planning standard for the global wind industry. This standard establishes clear expectations for standardization and collaboration among supply chain partners, including wind utility companies, developers, OEMs, suppliers, and subcontractors. As an authorized APQP4Wind training provider, SGS offers the ATIS framework to support your APQP4Wind journey and strengthen your supply chain.
  2. Energy Yield Assessment – SGS can evaluate the estimated annual energy yield of your planned power plant.
  3. Construction Project Supervision – SGS provides construction management and ensures quality standards and compliance with regulations. We monitor project timelines, budgets, and technical standards to ensure everything runs smoothly.
  4. Health, Safety, and Environment Management (HSE) – By implementing robust HSE programs, SGS minimizes risks associated with construction work and subsequent operations.
  5. Commissioning Surveys – Operating and maintaining wind turbines can be costly. Commissioning checks and follow-up inspections help ensure the efficiency and continuous operation of your wind turbines while reducing operational and maintenance costs.
  6. Drone Inspection Services – We provide customized technical inspection services using drones for areas such as solar parks, wind turbines, high-voltage lines and construction sites. Using industrial drones equipped with the latest thermal imaging sensors, zoom cameras and wide-angle cameras, we deliver precise and efficient inspections.
  7. Technical Due Diligence (TDD) – Technical Due Diligence involves assessing the feasibility of projects from a technical and functional perspective. SGS ensures compliance with applicable legislation and identifies potential documentation gaps, such as missing permits or certifications. Risks and opportunities are also identified before project initiation.
  8. Certification – Support for obtaining certifications like ISO 50001 or EDGE, which demonstrate compliance with global sustainability and efficiency standards.

Vasile Brădoaia, SGS’s expert in HSE management, stated: “In terms of health and safety at work, SGS provides services that include risk analysis, checking protective equipment, access permit control and occupational hygiene testing and assessment. For renewable energy projects, these services are essential to reducing accidents and protecting personnel working in challenging conditions, such as installing wind turbines at great heights. SGS also offers external HSE coordinators to support companies in implementing preventive measures and constantly monitoring compliance with safety regulations.”

Marius Manolache, SGS expert coordinating industrial projects within the Industries & Environmental division

Marius Manolache, the SGS expert coordinating industrial projects within the Industries & Environmental division, emphasized: “Each renewable energy project comes with its own technical and logistical challenges. Through rigorous monitoring and detailed analysis, we ensure projects are executed to the highest standards of quality and compliance. By partnering with SGS, clients gain significant advantages, including:

  • Improved operational efficiency – projects are executed according to plan, reducing delays and unforeseen costs.
  • Guaranteed compliance – SGS ensures all technical, legal and environmental aspects are met.
  • Risk evaluation and reduction – proactive measures are implemented to mitigate risks effectively.

Equally important is access to SGS’s global expertise: with an impressive international presence, SGS provides clients with its vast knowledge and best practices in the industry.”

 

Internationally Recognized Certifications

Companies are supported in obtaining international certifications such as ISO 50001 for energy management and green building certifications like EDGE. These certifications confirm compliance with international standards and provide global market recognition. For example, a solar park can benefit from SGS consultancy for designing an administrative building that meets EDGE sustainability criteria. SGS also offers certification services for traditional management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 50001) and second-party supplier chain audits.

Through its integrated services, SGS supports the development of a sustainable industry, contributing to environmental protection and generating added value for all stakeholders. For more information, visit our website or contact one of SGS’s representatives.

 

About SGS

SGS, the world leader in testing, inspection, and certification, operates a global network of over 2,700 laboratories and subsidiaries in 119 countries, supported by a team of 99,250 dedicated professionals. With a tradition of over 145 years in service excellence, we combine the precision and rigor associated with Swiss companies to help our clients achieve the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance.

Our brand promise, “When you need to be sure,” reflects our commitment to reliability, integrity and trust, providing solutions that help businesses grow safely. Our services are proudly delivered under the SGS brand or other trusted names such as Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe, and Nutrasource.

SGS is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the symbol SGSN (ISIN CH0002497458, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).

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