US wind power contractor Infrastructure and Energy Alternatives (IEA) has formed a new renewable energy services group to expand on its portfolio of clean power construction services.

The new unit offers technical maintenance and repair after construction, and will serve as the next phase in the company’s relationship with wind farm owners, developers and turbine manufacturers.

Part of the new business will provide extended services to wind customers, including blade repairs, major component change-outs, repowering, life extension projects and other value-added specialised services.

The new unit's team is led by Brant Patnode, senior vice president (VP), Paul Idziak, VP of business development, Franco Repetto, VP of commercial operations, Keith Wharton, VP of operations and Forrest Hach as director of field operations.

IEA executive VP Chris Hanson said: “Currently when a wind project is complete, infrastructure maintenance is often left to project developers and owners.

“With the creation of our renewable energy services group, we will now have the opportunity to extend the relationship with our customers and provide comprehensive services throughout the lifespan of the project.”

Patnode said: “I have worked with IEA for over a decade in the wind energy industry and have always been impressed with the quality of work they provide.

“It is a privilege to build an industry-leading team with an organisation that shares the same values for safety, quality, innovation and customer service that have guided me throughout my career.”

IEA has constructed more than 2GW of wind energy across North America.