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Site Investigations in Progress at RWE’s Three Norfolk Offshore Wind Project Locations

RWE has begun geophysical and geotechnical site investigations at Norfolk Boreas and Norfolk Vanguard offshore wind projects.
An image showing Norfolk Boreas and Norfolk Vanguard East Offshore Wind sites on a map

RWE has initiated geophysical and geotechnical site investigations at its Norfolk Boreas, Norfolk Vanguard East, and Norfolk Vanguard West offshore wind project sites in the UK, acquired from Vattenfall earlier this year.

The survey vessel Braveheart Spirit is conducting geotechnical survey operations within the Norfolk Boreas and Norfolk Vanguard East offshore wind farm sites. The shallow geotechnical scope includes in situ measurements, sampling, cone penetration testing (CPT), and vibrocore. The survey campaign, which began recently, is expected to last three months.

At the Norfolk Vanguard East site, geophysical and seismic surveys have been ongoing since June, with the vessels Geo Ranger, Noordhoek Pathfinder, and Geo Focus deployed for the work.

Geo Ranger and Noordhoek Pathfinder are performing geophysical surveys within the Norfolk Vanguard East site and along the export corridor boundaries. These surveys are anticipated to continue until the end of 2024, weather permitting.

The Geo Focus survey vessel is tasked with seismic surveys within the Norfolk Vanguard East site, expected to be completed by the end of October.

Geo Focus and Noordhoek Pathfinder began their assignments on RWE’s Norfolk offshore wind portfolio in May with geophysical surveys at the Norfolk Vanguard West site.

The Norfolk Boreas, Norfolk Vanguard East, and Norfolk Vanguard West projects are part of the larger Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone, designed to generate enough electricity to power nearly 3.9 million UK homes once operational.

Each of the three projects—Norfolk Vanguard West, Norfolk Vanguard East, and Norfolk Boreas—has a planned capacity of 1.4 GW and is located 50 to 80 kilometers off the Norfolk coast in East Anglia.

Initially developed by Vattenfall and acquired by RWE in March 2024, the projects have secured seabed rights, grid connections, Development Consent Orders, and other key permits. The Norfolk Vanguard West and East projects are the most advanced, with key components already procured.

Upon acquiring the projects, RWE stated that the next milestone for the Norfolk Vanguard West and Norfolk Vanguard East projects was to secure a Contract for Difference (CfD) in upcoming auctions.

RWE also resumed the development of the Norfolk Boreas project, which was previously halted.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

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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