We were contracted by Arven Offshore Wind Farm, in a joint venture between Mainstream Renewable Power and Ocean Winds, to undertake a benthic characterisation survey for the proposed Arven Project located off the east coast of Shetland. This offshore wind farm represents an important step in Scotland’s renewable energy journey.
We conducted a comprehensive benthic characterisation of the survey area, which included:
- Seabed imagery collection to visually assess habitats and communities.
- Sediment sampling for detailed physico-chemical and macrobenthic analysis.
- Water eDNA sampling to provide insights into biodiversity.
The data collected forms a critical baseline for future monitoring, enabling the assessment of changes to benthic communities and seabed sediment properties over time. This information will also support environmental impact assessment and habitats regulations appraisal consent processes.
By providing high-quality environmental data, we are helping to support the sustainable development of the Arven Offshore Wind Farm and contributing to the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure in Scotland.
