Innovative geophysics and the green revolution

Abstract

With the increasing pressure on the world?s hydrocarbon resources, alternative sources of energy are being investigated and established. At the forefront is wind power and more specifically offshore wind. Many developers investing in this new technology have turned to the oil sector for advice on offshore construction, resulting in not only a transfer of technology but an acceptance of alternatives which also embraces the realms of geophysics. As the offshore wind industry evolves, developers are being faced with more stringent requirements to obtain consents, specifically those of an environmental and archaeological nature. These demands have to be taken into consideration when designing a site investigation survey and innovative methodologies have to be applied. The following presents data from the United Kingdom Round 1 and 2 wind farm sites and provides a brief overview of the European offshore wind industry and how well designed geophysical surveys, utilizing the latest technology is aiding the developers.