Equinor and Polenergia have embarked on a crucial phase in the development of their ambitious 1560MW Baltyk I offshore wind farm situated in the Polish Baltic Sea. The endeavor has recently seen Geoquip Marine undertaking seabed research operations, with essential support from the survey vessel, Dina Polaris.
The primary objective of this research initiative is to acquire comprehensive geological data, shedding light on the seabed conditions where the Baltyk I offshore wind farm is slated to be constructed. This extensive undertaking is projected to conclude in the latter half of October.
The geological survey campaign carries significant implications for the project's readiness to participate in an auction aimed at securing a contract for difference (CfD). Developers are gearing up to submit their bids in the year 2025.
Marta Porzuczek, Director of the Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development in the Polenergia Group, emphasized the environmentally conscious nature of the research, stating, “The research is completely safe for the natural environment. We conduct them away from the coastline – approximately 80km from the Polish coast and approximately 90km from the Swedish coast.”
The designated area, an integral part of a special economic zone, is expected to accommodate the expansive Baltyk I offshore wind farm, spanning approximately 130 square kilometers. The project's parameters and the potential development of Baltyk II and III are subjects that are regularly discussed with coastal communities.
Eirik Strom Uthaug, Project Director for Baltyk I, highlighted the significant progress achieved, saying, “In spring, we successfully completed wind and sea wave intensity research for the Baltyk I project. The geotechnical campaign that has just been launched is another milestone on the way to the implementation of this investment.”
With data regarding the seabed's structure set to be gleaned from this research, the next steps will involve crafting a feasibility study and preliminary designs for the wind turbines and offshore power station, all integral components of the Baltic Sea's largest wind farm.
