RWE Deploys Bubble Curtain Technology to Protect Marine Life at Sofia Offshore Wind Farm
RWE has taken a significant step towards marine conservation by deploying bubble curtain technology for the first time in the U.K. at its Sofia offshore wind farm. This innovative underwater noise-abatement technology, introduced in collaboration with Hydrotechnik Offshore, aims to protect marine life from construction noise during offshore wind farm development.
Located 195km off the coast of England, the Sofia offshore wind farm is set to feature 100 Siemens Gamesa 14 MW offshore wind turbines upon completion in 2026. With a capacity of 1.4 GW, the project will power the equivalent of 1.2 million typical UK homes.
How Does the Bubble Curtain Work?
The bubble curtain technology works by creating a barrier of rising bubbles around the turbine installation site. This bubble barrier effectively reduces the propagation of underwater noise generated during piling activities, minimizing disturbances to marine species such as harbour porpoises, dolphins, and whales that rely on ultrasound for orientation.
A perforated hose is placed on the seabed around the turbine installation site, forming a 180-meter-wide ring. Compressed air is then pumped through the hose, generating a continuous stream of bubbles that rise to the surface. This bubble barrier breaks up and slows down sound waves, significantly lowering noise levels during piling operations.
Environmental Responsibility and Sustainability
The adoption of the bubble curtain at Sofia underscores RWE’s commitment to sustainability and marine conservation. The project is situated within the Southern North Sea Special Area of Conservation (SAC), a protected zone for harbour porpoises where noise disturbance regulations are strictly monitored.
Matthew Swanwick, RWE Sofia Project Director, emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility, stating, “By introducing the use of a bubble curtain on a trial basis, we are strengthening our commitment to environmental responsibility. Projects like this can ensure offshore wind energy can be developed sustainably, with minimal impact on marine life, taking cognizance of working with a Special Area of Conservation.”
The successful deployment of the bubble curtain technology at Sofia sets a precedent for future offshore wind farm developments, demonstrating how innovative solutions can mitigate environmental impacts and protect marine ecosystems.
As the Sofia offshore wind farm continues its construction on Dogger Bank, RWE’s use of bubble curtain technology marks a milestone in the industry’s efforts towards sustainable energy development and marine conservation.