Orsted and Eversource have signed a multi-year research partnership with Mystic Aquarium to study the effects of offshore wind turbines on marine mammals and sea turtles.
The research partnership is part of a $1.25m grant Orsted and Eversource awarded to Mystic Aquarium announced last year.
Through this partnership, Aquarium scientists will conduct several studies related to marine mammals and sea turtles, including investigating the occurrence of marine mammal strandings before and after construction and operation phases of the two developers’ three offshore wind farms: South Fork Wind, Revolution Wind, and Sunrise Wind.
In addition, the group will also develop biomarker technology to assess the physiological response to offshore wind power systems and to conduct long-term health monitoring, and tag and track =seals and sea turtles in relation to offshore wind development and operation.
It will further the development of non-invasive sample collection for health monitoring and investigate the utility of environmental DNA (eDNA), such as through water samples, to detect the presence of sea turtles and seals.
“Offshore wind energy will play a significant role in fighting climate change, which is one of the biggest threats to the health of marine ecosystems,” said Katie Cubina, Acting President and CEO of Mystic Aquarium.
“We absolutely need the benefits of renewable offshore wind energy to help stem environmental damage caused by fossil fuels, but we also need to ensure that wind turbines are installed and operated in a responsible manner that minimizes negative impacts on the marine ecosystem.”
Orsted Senior Manager of Government Affairs & Policy, New England Nicole Verdi added: “Developing more clean, renewable energy is critical in combatting the impacts of climate change on our oceans and on wildlife.
“Orsted is committed to the responsible development of offshore wind and has prioritised understanding and supporting positive biodiversity through our projects. We’re glad to partner with the Mystic Aquarium to ensure offshore wind can coexist with marine life and to advance more clean energy projects that will stave off the worst impacts of climate change.”