Creation Covenant Alliance

RWE and Saitec Enhance Environmental Monitoring at DemoSATH Floating Wind Site

RWE and Saitec Offshore Technologies are conducting enhanced environmental studies at the DemoSATH floating wind project in Spain.
RWE, Saitec Expand Environmental Monitoring Efforts at DemoSATH Floating Wind Site

RWE and Saitec Offshore Technologies have initiated enhanced environmental monitoring studies at the DemoSATH floating offshore wind project off the Basque coast of Spain.

The two companies have launched the DemoSATH Lab initiative to carry out further environmental monitoring around the demonstrator.

The research will study the platform’s interactions with the environment, focusing on the possible impact on birds, the emission of underwater noise, and the interactions of marine life with the structure.

The program will last until at least the end of 2025 to span multiple seasons and weather conditions.

“The DemoSATH Lab research will help us to increase our understanding of key biodiversity aspects of floating offshore wind turbines, such as underwater noise and bird interactions during operation. This will help us to ensure our future development of floating offshore wind is undertaken in coexistence with nature,” said Martin Dörnhöfer, Director of Floating Wind at RWE Offshore Wind GmbH.

For bird interactions, the research will use data from the DTBird monitoring system already installed on the DemoSATH platform. Its dual aims are to understand bird interactions with floating wind turbines and foundations and to improve bird detection module algorithms and responses.

An underwater noise monitoring system has also been set up for the operational phase of the project.

The outputs will be compared to baseline underwater noise profiles measured before the demonstrator was installed and during commissioning to better understand the operational noise of floating wind installations and their impact over the project’s lifetime.

Additional information about marine mammals around the structure may also be obtained.

A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is planned to be periodically deployed to observe how marine life interacts with the project’s substructure, moorings, anchors, and power cables within the local environment.

“The knowledge acquired, based on the experience in DemoSATH Lab will allow Saitec Group to improve the ecological fit of SATH technology and develop floating offshore wind projects respectful to the marine environment,” said Javier Del Real, Head of Environment and Stakeholder Engagement at Saitec Offshore Technologies.

Located two miles (approximately 3.2 kilometers) off the Basque coast at the Biscay Marine Energy Platform (BiMEP) testing area at Armintza, the DemoSATH platform features a turbine with a capacity of 2 MW, installed in September 2023.

Its annual production is equivalent to the electricity consumption of about 2,000 Spanish households. As a result of this project, floating offshore wind technology was introduced into Spain’s energy mix for the first time.

The commissioning marks the beginning of a two-year operational period to gather data about the behavior of the SATH technology, developed by Saitec Offshore Technologies.

The project’s success is due to the combined capabilities of the partners; Saitec Offshore Technologies, as the designer of the SATH technology and project developers; RWE contributing its expertise in the offshore wind sector; and Kansai Electric Power Company (KEPCO) with its experience in energy.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024