Project: SSER general approach to applying the Mitigation Hierarchy in offshore wind farms development
Location: UK
Cost: N/A
Dates: 2008 – onwards
Objectives: To apply the mitigation hierarchy to minimise the environmental impact of offshore SSER projects throughout their lifecycle phases, whilst also fostering innovation and knowledge-sharing within the renewable energy sector.
Measures undertaken: Note that the following construction measures are general approaches across SSER projects and do not all refer to a single project. Selecting foundations that do not require impact piling, such as bucket foundations, or using vibro-piling or coffer dams to reduce noise levels that may negatively impact marine mammals. Furthermore, Utilising noise abatement systems (e.g., Big Bubble Curtains) and monitoring for marine mammals to ensure none are within a starting distance before noisy works begin. Using advanced trenchless technology such as horizontal directional drilling (HDD) to avoid impacts on subtidal and intertidal habitats at landfall. Using directional lighting, such as directing vessel deck lighting towards working areas only and keeping this to the minimum level required to facilitate safe operations, to avoid nocturnal seabird and migrant disturbances during nocturnal construction activities. Employing vessel management plans, such as working within existing shipping routes where possible and limiting vessel speed, to reduce potential disturbance or injury to marine mammals and foraging seabirds.
Challenges:
- Addressing cumulative impacts on designated sites can lead to compensation options under the Habitats Directive Regulations
Images copyright: SSER
