Ørsted, a prominent renewable energy company, has introduced a groundbreaking technique that is set to revolutionize the installation of offshore wind turbine foundations. The innovative method, described as a “game changer” in the industry, utilizes a noise-reducing jetting technology, marking a significant advancement in offshore wind energy.
The breakthrough installation technique has undergone successful testing during the installation of foundations at the Gode Wind 3 wind farm in Germany. According to Ørsted, the new method has shown a substantial reduction in noise levels, effectively mitigating the impact on marine life. In addition to its environmental benefits, the company also sees the potential for the technology to be financially lucrative.
The implementation of this novel approach represents the first time that jetting technology has been used for the installation of full-size monopile foundations. The reduced noise levels and the potential for cost reduction position this technology as a potential driver for the next generation of offshore wind foundations.
Patrick Harnett, the Chief Operating Officer at Ørsted, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the new technology, stating, “This new technology is a potential game changer in the way we build offshore wind.” He highlighted the significant advantages of the new method, emphasizing its potential to make foundation installation faster, more cost-effective, and notably quieter than existing technologies.
The patented jetting technology works by decreasing the resistance of the sandy seabed, allowing the foundation to submerge without the need for traditional pile driving methods. Measurements have shown a remarkable 34-decibel reduction in underwater noise compared to the most commonly used installation technique, signifying a reduction of over 99% in noise levels.
Having developed and refined the technology over several years, Ørsted is now exploring its potential application in future projects. The company is also investigating the adaptability of the technology in more complex seabed conditions, beyond the clean sand environment present at the Gode Wind 3 site. Funding from the German regulator Bundesnetzagentur (BNetzA) is supporting this initiative, reflecting the industry’s commitment to promoting innovation in offshore wind development.
In addition to the pioneering jetting technology, Ørsted is actively engaged in efforts to limit the duration, intensity, and scale of certain construction activities. The company is exploring the use of mitigation measures such as bubble curtains and other noise barriers to further minimize environmental impact.
Furthermore, in line with its commitment to innovation, Ørsted is spearheading the use of unmanned vessels for data collection at sea and is currently trialling the use of large drones for transporting cargo to offshore wind turbines.
The introduction of this groundbreaking technology not only underscores Ørsted’s dedication to sustainable energy solutions but also sets a new standard for environmentally conscious practices in the offshore wind industry. With its potential to revolutionize offshore wind foundation installation, this innovative technique is poised to redefine the landscape of renewable energy.