Energy / Offshore wind farm surveys to begin soon
A SEABED survey of a proposed large offshore wind farm site to the east of Shetland is due to take place soon.
The surveys are for the proposed Arven wind farm, which could have a total generating capacity of 2.3GW.
To put this into context, this is five times the total capacity of the Viking Energy wind farm.
A spokesperson for Arven, which is being developed by Mainstream Renewable Power and Ocean Winds, said the seabed survey forms part of early data gathering for the project to inform planning.
“Analysis of the data gathered will also help to inform the environmental impact assessment for the project, which will be undertaken in the coming years,” they told Shetland News.
The survey involves the MV Situla, which will be mobilised from Lerwick. It will be undertaken by Ocean Ecology.
It should be completed by early October.
Discussions are also underway with specialists at Shetland UHI’s Scalloway campus with the aim of “drawing on their detailed local knowledge and expertise as data is gathered and analysed”.
The spokesperson added that Arven has also initiated a programme of aerial surveys to gather data on bird and marine mammal activity in the lease areas.
“Arven has commenced engagement with key stakeholders, including the fishing community, to discuss plans for the project and to keep them informed regarding planned survey works,” they added.
“Both shareholders – Ocean Winds and Mainstream Renewable Power – have a strong track record in commitment to developing regional and local infrastructure, and local industry will be at the core of Arven’s development.
“Positive engagement is now well established with the fishing industry, local supply chain, Lerwick Port Authority, Shetland Islands Council and economic development agencies.”
Arven featured in Crown Estate Scotland’s ScotWind seabed leasing auction.
It was initially two sites – 1.8GW and 500MW – before the two developers decided to work jointly on a combined project.
Also part of the leasing round was ESB’s smaller 500MW wind farm proposal, which would sit nearby.
The developer of that wind farm has launched a competition for primary school children to name the development.
It was also announced on Wednesday that ESB had signed a memorandum of understanding with Lerwick Port Authority.
Become a member of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider paying for membership to get additional features and services: -
- Remove non-local ads;
- Bookmark posts to read later;
- Exclusive curated weekly newsletter;
- Hide membership messages;
- Comments open for discussion.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a member of Shetland News by either making a single payment, or setting up a monthly, quarterly or yearly subscription.
Already a member? Sign in to hide this message.
