The uses of LiDAR in offshore wind energy

Light Detection and Ranging – LiDAR– employs laser pulses to measure distances, creating detailed three-dimensional maps of surfaces and objects. It is used in a range of applications and industries, including archaeology, environmental monitoring and autonomous vehicles. In offshore wind energy, LiDAR equipment is integral to mapping seabed topography, measuring wind speed and supporting the optimisation of wind farms.

A key advantage of LiDAR scanning is its ability to provide accurate, high-resolution data over large areas without requiring direct contact with the surface. Using a LiDAR sensor, offshore wind developers can detect minute details in wind patterns and environmental conditions, significantly improving decision-making processes.

Standard technology is less effective underwater due to the way laser beams scatter in liquid. However, specialised underwater LiDAR scanners have been developed to map the seabed and monitor underwater structures. These devices operate with modified wavelengths that can penetrate water more effectively, making them valuable for offshore wind projects.

Underwater LiDAR scanning is commonly used to inspect submerged turbine components and measure depths. This application complements traditional sonar methods, offering higher precision and faster data collection.

Ground-penetrating LiDAR is designed to penetrate surfaces such as soil, sand and ice. It is particularly useful for detecting subsurface features and is commonly employed in geological studies and infrastructure planning.

In offshore wind energy, ground-penetrating LiDAR surveys are instrumental in understanding seabed composition, ensuring stable foundations for wind turbines and mitigating environmental impact.

LiDAR surveys help developers to identify the best locations for wind farms. By using beam-based scanning, LiDAR equipment measures wind speed, turbulence intensity and direction at multiple heights, enabling developers to design turbines tailored to site-specific conditions.

Floating LiDAR Systems (FLS) have become a standard for offshore wind surveys. These systems are mounted on buoys and can operate in harsh marine environments, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional meteorological masts(met masts).

Dual-LiDAR Systems represent a novel application of this technology. These systems use two strategically placed LiDARsto create virtual met masts, providing three-dimensional wind data across wide areas. This innovation reduces uncertainties in wind assessments.

Key benefits of LiDAR technology include:

LiDAR surveys are faster and more adaptable than traditional methods such as met masts.

Deploying floating LiDAR systems is significantly less expensive than building fixed measurement platforms.

Advanced LiDAR sensors capture detailed data, minimising errors in wind resource assessments.

LiDAR scanning reduces the need for invasive surveys.

In recent years, LiDAR technology has become a critical tool in the development and operation of offshore wind farms. Recent striders in wind measurement technology have yielded LiDAR that can be used for even the largest turbines.By leveraging advanced LiDAR equipment, the offshore wind energy industry can continue to push the boundaries of renewable power generation at sea.