Wind Energy – Bubble Curtain
RWE has deployed bubble curtain technology for the first time in the UK to protect marine life from construction noise at its Sofia offshore wind farm.
RWE, in partnership with Hydrotechnik Offshore, has introduced an innovative underwater noise reduction technology, known as a bubble curtain, for offshore wind farm construction in the U.K. The deployment at the Sofia offshore wind farm, located 195km off the coast of England, represents a significant step forward in protecting marine life from underwater noise generated during pile driving.
The Bubble Curtain, which has already been deployed across Europe, reduces the propagation of underwater noise by creating a barrier of rising bubbles around the turbine installation site.
By attenuating sound waves, this technology reduces disturbance to marine species such as porpoises, dolphins and whales, which rely on ultrasound for orientation.
The system works by placing a perforated hose on the seabed around the turbine site, forming a 180 metre wide ring.
Compressed air is pumped through the hose, creating a continuous stream of bubbles that rise to the surface. This bubble curtain effectively breaks up and slows down the sound waves, significantly reducing noise levels during pile driving.
The use of the bubble curtain in Sofia reflects RWE’s commitment to sustainability and marine protection. The project is located in the Southern North Sea Special Area of Conservation (SAC), a protected area for harbour porpoises, where noise regulations are strictly enforced.
The Sofia offshore wind farm, currently under construction on Dogger Bank, 195 kilometres from the nearest point on the north-east coast of the UK, will comprise 100 Siemens Gamesa 14 MW offshore wind turbines.
