Under the ocean’s surface, you can hear the gentle hum of progress as wind turbines spin majestically above. However, this sound, produced by the underwater infrastructure of floating offshore wind farms, can affect marine life. While researchers have extensively studied the noise from land-based wind farms, we know almost nothing about the noise from these floating structures.
Recognizing the need for a deeper understanding, Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult, in collaboration with Equinor, JASCO Applied Sciences, the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), and Xi Engineering, has launched the FLOWN-MIT (Floating Offshore Wind Noise Mitigation) program. This project aims to enhance industry knowledge and environmental strategies through evidence-based methods for monitoring and mitigating underwater noise risks.
Bridging the gap
The FLOWN-MIT program is a key part of the Offshore Wind Evidence and Change Program, a significant £50 million investment by The Crown Estate. The initiative unites 26 government agencies, industry bodies, and environmental NGOs to tackle the pressing issues of climate change and biodiversity loss by addressing crucial knowledge gaps.
At the heart of FLOWN-MIT is a thorough environmental risk assessment and the development of effective noise monitoring and mitigation tools. It aims to standardize the methods for assessing and managing underwater noise, thereby streamlining the permitting process for offshore wind projects and making it more efficient and well-informed. The project is further confirmation that the wind industry is committed to ensuring that the advancement of renewable energy goes hand in hand with the protection of marine life.
