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Surveys providing invaluable data for project design

Feasibility investigations for Ørsted’s Gippsland Offshore Wind Farm projects are underway with the completion of marine geophysical
and geotechnical surveys, and placement of wind and ocean condition measurement devices.

The geotechnical surveys, which help us understand the composition of the seabed, were completed in April, with tests completed in about 60 locations across our two feasibility licence areas.
Specialist crews and equipment for geotechnical testing
Specialist crews and equipment for geotechnical testing
The investigations were conducted via penetration tests using a small test module deployed from a vessel, as well as sediment samples taken using specialised grab samplers. Each test takes about four hours to complete. Data is now being analysed both in the Ørsted offices as well as in a laboratory, and will help the project team choose locations that provide strong foundations to build wind turbines on.

These tests followed an earlier geophysical survey of the seabed, using a survey vessel and local specialists to conduct a series of non-invasive scans that help us understand seabed and subsurface conditions.

During the same period, sophisticated devices that measure wind, weather and ocean conditions were successfully deployed and anchored within Ørsted’s licence areas, which will now stay in place for two years. They are mapping wind, wave, current and meteorological parameters to allow us to optimise the eventual configuration of the wind farms and how we best operate them. The devices includes the innovative USV (Uncrewed Surface Vessel) which uses state-of-the-art technology developed by Ørsted to undertake long-endurance surveys at sea.​​
Floating Light Detection and Ranging (FLiDAR) buoy departing Port Anthony for deployment at sea
To ensure marine surveys could be completed safely, Ørsted actively engaged with existing marine users to understand their use of intended survey locations and mitigate any impacts. Ørsted is committed to continuing this engagement through regular communication and Notices to Mariners.

With the devices now providing ongoing data to the project team, this is the culmination of many months of preparation, and represents a significant milestone in helping us understand the seabed and metocean conditions of the offshore wind farm site.
Ørsted’s purpose-built Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) deployed for the first time outside Europe to collect data on wind conditions, seabed characteristics, and vital biological and ecological measurements.