Fugro assessing impact of combined North Sea wind, CCS schemes
June 9, 2022
The Netherlands’ Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy has commissioned Fugro to perform a dual-purpose study in the North Sea.
Courtesy Fugro
Offshore staff
LEIDSCHENDAM, the Netherlands— The Netherlands’ Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy has commissioned Fugro to perform a dual-purpose study in the North Sea.
Fugro will assess whether certain areas could serve for offshore wind farm and carbon capture and storage (CCS) developments.
To date, the company has concluded the concept is feasible but with the following recommendations to ensure the safety of future projects:
Development of a 3D characterization model for geological sites to determine the probability of an earthquake occurring directly below a wind farm;
Monitoring of CO2 liquid injection to understand the impact on the pressure of the earth;
Installation of a seismic monitoring system to monitor seismicity at the site; and
Implementation of a seismic risk management system that ensures activities can be stopped in ample time, if needed.
The Dutch government is supporting studies for two CCS projects (Porthos and Aramis) and 21 GW of electricity generated by offshore wind farms by 2030.
Results from Fugro’s program will support future regulatory decisions and guide overlapping CCS and offshore wind farm developments.
