Wind Energy – UXO and Clearance
Hughes Subsea, an OEG Renewables business, has been awarded the contract to undertake the unexploded ordnance (UXO) identification and clearance campaign on the East Anglia THREE (EA3) wind farm being developed by ScottishPower Renewables in the Southern North Sea.
This is expected to be a 6-month project, commencing in mid-March, and continuing until early October 2024 utlising the Glomar Wave, a DP2 66.4m long vessel.
The offshore operations will involve the identification, investigation, and disposal of confirmed UXO (cUXO) targets across an area of approximately 305km2.
Hughes Subsea will deploy its work class remotely operated vehicle (WROV) and specialist divers, and be supported by another OEGR business, GEOSIGHT, who will be providing surveying and calibration services. In addition, maritime archaeologists will be enlisted to handle historic findings, and marine mammal observers (MMOs) will support the monitoring of local wildlife, underlining our commitment to environmental stewardship.
Mike Bailey, Managing Director of Hughes Subsea, said: “We are very much looking forward to working with ScottishPower Renewables on the EA3 wind farm development. OEGR and Hughes Subsea are leaders in this highly specialist field of surveying, identifying and responsibly clearing confirmed UXOs. With a steadfast commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, and to supporting the successful deployment of offshore renewables to meet the UK’s energy transition goals.”