RWE is starting site investigation survey work for its planned 1.6 GW Canopy Offshore Wind Farm project off the coast of northern California.
“Surveying is an important step on the path toward developing Canopy Offshore Wind and helping provide clean energy that meets California’s ambitious climate goals,” says Sam Eaton, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind Holdings.
“RWE is committed to responsible, inclusive development by engaging Humboldt residents, Tribal Nations and working closely with the fishing community as we begin offshore activities on the project.”
The company has selected Argeo to perform the project’s site investigation work. Due to the water depths in the lease area off the Pacific Coast, Argeo plans to utilize an autonomous underwater vehicle to conduct the surveys.
The sensors carried by the AUV operate at safe sound levels and meet California low energy equipment requirements for geophysical surveys that are in place to minimize impacts to marine mammals and other wildlife, says RWE.
Canopy survey work will utilize Protected Species Observers to detect and avoid marine mammals during survey activities, as well as collect visual observation data on marine wildlife.
RWE has selected Geo SubSea and Coastal 35 Consulting to provide PSOs on survey vessels and Smultea Sciences to deliver PSO training to Tribal citizens and Humboldt County community members.
Canopy plans to conduct initial site investigation surveys during this year and next, with the first activities expected to begin this month. It is also working with the fishing and maritime industries to communicate its survey plans and water activities.
