Function
Seabed surveys analyse the seabed environment of the proposed offshore wind farm site and export cable route to assess its geological condition and engineering characteristics. The data collected is utilised in a wide range of engineering and environmental studies through the design and development phase.
Who is involved
Geological and hydrological surveys are conducted by specialist suppliers contracted by the developer or the state.
Key facts
Seabed surveys consist of two main parts: non-invasive geophysical surveys of seabed features and bathymetry, and invasive geotechnical surveys of the seabed characteristics.
Seabed surveys are an important component of the development process and aid several processes, such as optimising the foundation design and wind farm layout, as well as minimising risk during installation activities.
Environmental and seabed surveys and data collection (geotechnical and geophysical) can start five years or more before the planned operation of the offshore wind farm.
Offshore wind development typically requires more data collection over larger areas, but the technical approaches are like other sectors, such as oil and gas.
