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 supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
