The BeWild project, led by Fugro, has completed the world’s first fully remote ecology survey at CrossWind’s Hollandse Kust Noord offshore wind farm, marking a significant shift in marine ecosystem monitoring. This innovative approach enables more efficient and less disruptive monitoring.
Together, the BeWild partners integrated computer vision and environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling into Fugro’s Blue Volta electric remotely operated vehicle (eROV). This system was deployed from its Blue Essence uncrewed surface vessel (USV), with both USV and eROV controlled from Fugro’s remote operations centre in Aberdeen.
Dan Smith, BeWild Manager, explains: ‘This survey provides a glimpse into the future of offshore ecology monitoring. By delivering high-quality data remotely, we’re not only reducing operational costs and environmental impact, but also enabling our clients to gain unprecedented insights into the health and biodiversity of their offshore assets. We’re incredibly excited about the potential this technology holds for the sustainable development of offshore wind energy.’
Also read: Fugro to provide USV seabed mapping in Norway
Offshore wind energy with nature enhancement
‘At CrossWind, we are excited to combine remote asset inspections with ecological monitoring of our nature inclusive scour protection measures,’ adds Pauline Roos, CrossWind’s Marine Ecologist. ‘By combining the two, we can be more efficient with our resources offshore, ultimately making it safer for people. We look forward to seeing the results of these surveys.’
Renate Olie, Marine Ecologist at The Rich North Sea: ‘In this survey, we explore how regular offshore inspections can integrate ecological monitoring. By using autonomous technology and different survey techniques, we get a better understanding of marine biodiversity around wind turbines. By combining offshore wind energy with nature enhancement, we work towards a thriving and biodiverse North Sea.’
Also read: Fugro and Spoor monitor birds with AI at offshore wind farms
MOOI subsidy
This survey marks the first of four research and development assessments at CrossWind under the BeWild project, supported by a Mission-driven Research, Development and Innovation (MOOI) subsidy from the Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO).
Picture by Fugro.
