General – Latvian OWF
ELWIND has signed a contract with Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology (LHEI) to carry out a Benthic ecology study and Study on the formation and distribution of suspended solids and water quality for the Latvian offshore wind park project.
The Benthic Ecology Study will be carried out by LHEI in the ELWIND offshore wind park area in Latvia to identify seabed habitats and benthic communities. The study aims to evaluate the potential impact of the planned infrastructure on the marine ecosystem, including the possible “reef effect,” and will recommend mitigation measures.
In the Study on Suspended Solids and Water Quality, LHEI will analyse the dispersion of particles caused by seabed disturbance and their impact on the physico-chemical parameters of the marine environment. Field measurements and numerical modelling will be carried out to assess potential environmental risks during project implementation.
Both studies are part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which is required to evaluate the ELWIND project’s effects on the marine environment and ensure compliance with environmental legislation.
The goal of the joint Estonian–Latvian ELWIND offshore wind park is to create favourable conditions for the development of accessible renewable energy in the region, benefiting both local communities and electricity consumers in Estonia and Latvia.
To achieve this, both countries are conducting comprehensive studies on the potential environmental impacts of the offshore wind park, including effects on wildlife, seabed, socio-economic conditions, visual landscape, and other key aspects.
