5 July 2024
Exciting news from the Green Volt windfarm project team – a state of the art LiDAR monitoring system has been deployed in recent weeks to enhance our site assessment and planning. Read the latest update from Mark McDonald, Stakeholder Lead on the project team:
This advanced technology helps us measure wind speeds, waves, ocean currents and general monitoring of the localised marine environment in real-time. By utilising Stage 3 qualified floating LiDAR, supplied and maintained by Partrac, we are gaining the most accurate site data to ensure we understand the environmental conditions to be optimised by the project over the years ahead.
Stakeholder Lead,
Mark McDonald
What is LiDAR?
LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging. Mark explains in more detail how LiDAR deploys remote sensing that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure variable distances to the Earth. These light pulses, combined with other data recorded by the airborne system, generate precise, three-dimensional information about the shape of the Earth and its surface characteristics.
”In simpler terms, LiDAR sends out laser beams towards an object or surface and measures the time it takes for the light to bounce back. By calculating this time, it can determine the distance between the sensor and the target, creating detailed maps and models of the environment."
LiDAR system being deployed
Benefits of LiDAR for Green Volt floating offshore windfarm
Increased accuracy and efficiency
The high-resolution data provided by LiDAR ensures the project fully understands localised environmental conditions, allowing us to accurately estimate project parameters and maximise energy production. Accurate wind and environmental measurements enable us to optimise turbine placement and performance, leading to increased energy output and efficiency.
Environmental stewardship
Minimising environmental impact is a core value of the Green Volt project. By using floating LiDAR to carefully assess and monitor the marine environment, we can ensure that our operations are as sustainable as possible.
Additionally, Green Volt is also deploying an independent wave buoy in the site development area, which will provide detailed data on smaller waves and in turn, support associated decisions for the operations and maintenance of the windfarm once in operation.
Deploying a LiDAR system for the Green Volt project has been a significant milestone, achieved through the teamwork and dedication of our diverse teams.
Engineers and technicians collaborated meticulously to ensure the precise installation and calibration of the LiDAR equipment; our consents team worked closely with environmental specialists to select the optimal locations, ensuring minimal ecological impact; the safety team played a crucial role in maintaining rigorous safety standards throughout the deployment process, safeguarding all personnel involved; data analysts and software developers will now process and interpret the collected data, providing invaluable insights for project design.
We extend our thanks and recognition to everyone who has contributed in this critical milestone, advancing the Green Volt project towards its goal of efficient and sustainable wind energy generation in the years ahead.