Fugro has teamed up with specialist underwater acoustics company Jasco Applied Sciences to provide a new marine renewables sector service – measurement of underwater noise and allied consultancy.
With the measurement of underwater noise created during construction and operation of wind farms and tidal turbines now an important component of any EIA, the new partners believe they can bring a number of advantages to the table that can be used by the wind, wave and tidal sectors.
Mark Calverley, consultancy director of Fugro GEOS, said: ‘Both organisations already have established track records within these sectors. By combining our extensive experience and expertise in technical system deployment, we are able to introduce cost-efficiencies, by offering a "one-stop" solution.'
Jasco director Robin Burns added this his company's 3D acoustic modelling and measurement capability had been used by several legislators around the world to support development of appropriate regulatory guidelines for addressing noise-related concerns. ‘We can assist renewable energy developers through provision of empirical assessments of their projects to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements relating to underwater noise.'
Among advantages claimed for this joint approach is the ability to conduct pre-piling acoustic impact assessment including use of bubble-curtain mitigation; construction phase calibrated noise level measurements; and post construction acoustic recording that not only assesses overall noise contribution from the operational wind or tidal scheme, but may support studies to confirm the return of pre-existing mammals and fish stocks. OE
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