Vattenfall launches offshore wind research programme

A €3 million fund has been established to study the environmental impact of offshore wind. The Swedish energy company, Vattenfall launched the programme in an attempt to understand the environmental impacts of offshore wind.

The study will be conducted from the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre. There will be a scientific panel advising on the allocation of the fund.

Adam Ezzamel, project director for the EOWDC at Vattenfall, said: “In-depth scientific research and monitoring in a real-time environment is recognised as vital to maximising the learning opportunities for the offshore wind sector. We’re pleased that the research will take place at the EOWDC as it underlines the importance of the scheme as a global hub of innovation. We are working collaboratively with a number of key environmental agencies to allocate the research budget, and look forward to working closely with the successful parties to facilitate exceptional science.” Panel members who will decide on applications include the Scottish Environment Energy Agency, The Crown Estate and RSPB Scotland.

Aly McCluskie, senior conservation scientist at RSPB Scotland, said: “Offshore wind has huge potential to help reduce our carbon emissions but we need to improve our understanding of its environmental effects to help ensure developments happen without harming wildlife. This research programme at EOWDC provides an excellent opportunity to contribute towards this and RSPB Scotland are very pleased to support its launch.”