General – Nearshore Survey
Fugro is conducting nearshore surveys for SSEN Transmission’s Western Isles High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Link project.
This project will facilitate the transfer of 1,800 MW of renewable energy from Scotland’s islands to the UK mainland.
The surveys will provide geodata to inform the design and construction of the cable landfalls, the points at which subsea cables come ashore. This will help to reduce risks and optimise route planning for this vital infrastructure.
The Western Isles HVDC Link is a crucial project that will strengthen the UK’s electricity network and unlock renewable energy potential for generations to come. As well as expanding capacity, it will enable the efficient transmission of clean power from the Western Isles, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the UK’s transition to a low-carbon future.
The new HVDC link will consist of approximately 83 km of underground cable and 81 km of subsea cable, connecting SSEN Transmission’s Lewis Hub HVDC converter station and AC substation on the Isle of Lewis to the mainland.
To support this, Fugro is combining geophysical mapping with geotechnical boreholes to develop a comprehensive understanding of the seabed and coastline. This work is being delivered by the compact ARAN 250 specialist jack-up platform, which operates in shallow waters. As part of this investigation, operations have been organised to be as minimally invasive as possible. Borehole locations have been carefully identified and are supported by geophysical data to avoid unnecessary drilling and take environmental considerations into account.
The investigations include drilling and testing at several potential landfall locations near Arnish Point in Lewis and Dundonnell on the Scottish mainland. Soil samples will undergo advanced analysis at Fugro’s laboratory in Wallingford, turning complex ground data into actionable insights to inform project planning.
With survey work at Arnish Point now complete, the ARAN 250 has moved to Dundonnell where it is expected to complete its operations in February, weather permitting.
