Seabed surveys have commenced at the Lillebælt Syd offshore wind project in Denmark, marking a key step in the development of the 165-megawatt (MW) wind farm scheduled to begin operations in 2029, developers said on Thursday.
A large survey vessel is currently collecting data on water depth and seabed conditions and will soon be joined by two smaller vessels, according to European Energy. The project is being developed by TotalEnergies (72.25%), European Energy (15%), and SONFOR (12.75%).
The surveys will use advanced 3D technology to map the seabed, identify large rocks, and detect potential hazards such as unexploded ordnance. The data will inform the design and construction phases of the wind farm, including the layout of turbine foundations and subsea cable routes.
“I’m pleased to see the geophysical operations launched now for Lillebælt Syd,” said Zhanar Dreisig, asset manager at TotalEnergies Offshore Wind. “The vessels will carry out geophysical surveys that are crucial for the development of the offshore wind farm and our goal of being able to produce electricity in the Lillebælt area from 2029.”
The largest of the three vessels is expected to be visible from the Danish coast throughout the survey period, which will run until the end of July 2025.
“Geophysical surveys give us insight into the structure of the seabed and ensure that we can plan the construction of wind turbine foundations and the installation of subsea cables with the highest precision and minimal impact on the marine environment,” added Andreas Karhula Lauridsen, vice president and head of offshore wind at European Energy.
Once operational, the wind farm is expected to supply electricity to more than 148,000 households, contributing to Denmark’s renewable energy targets and supporting Sønderborg Municipality’s ProjectZero climate initiative.
