More disturbance in prospect for marine wildlife but windfarm cabling problem needs to be fixed

The Hornsea One windfarm - 174 turbines in total 

A NOTE of concern has been sounded on the integrity of the cable network - specifically the foundations - linking Ørsted Hornsea One  windfarm, 75 miles off the Yorkshire Coast, to Horseshoe Point in Lincolnshire.

Recent investigations have revealed degradation of the existing Cable Protection System  associated with the foundations. 

The Danish company fears that unless there is extensive remedial work, there will be continuing degradation "resulting in significant power transmission loss, and requiring subsequent emergency cable repairs". 

According to a report seen by The Wryneck, the proposed works include "the placement of permanent rock and/or rock bag berms to stabilise cables ends". 

Assuming there are no environmental or other objections, the work is expected to start in spring or summer this year and will be completed over a period of 150 days within a five-year period.

Why such a long timeframe? Progress will depend on ease of rock transit and laying, weather downtime, currents and tidal states and any additional stabilisation challenges.

* All images courtsey of  Ørsted 

                                           

                                                

With just one rotation of its blades, a single turbine can supply sufficient electricity for a day for an average home