Fugro EMU has been appointed by Dong Energy to carry out offshore pre-construction surveys for the 660MW Walney 3 offshore wind farm extension off the coast of Cumbria.
The survey work will start this month with the aim of providing additional geophysical data to ensure the seabed is clear of obstructions, such as unexploded ordnance from the Second World War, before construction starts.
The company will use three vessels for the job.
The 41-metre Fugro Helmert will survey the main wind farm site, while the 24-metre RV Discovery will operate on both the wind farm site and the export cable route.
The 12-metre Fugro Valkyrie will carry out nearshore works on the export cable route.
Dong said that a later stage, another contractor will be appointed to carry out a detailed survey with a remotely operated vehicle to check for and, if necessary, deal with any debris or ordnance found.
Dong Energy programme director for the Walney Extension Andrew Cotterell said: “Carrying out geophysical surveys is an important step before we can safely begin offshore construction.
Fugro EMU deputy geophysics business line manager Nick Simmons said: “We are looking forward to applying our specialist skills and resources in UXO detection at this site.”
Image: the Walney offshore wind farm (Dong)
Fugro grabs Walney 3 gig
Three vessels to survey site of 660MW extension for seabed obstructions
By EBS