Te c h n i c a l & S a f e t y
In UK waters there are usually 50m zones around each turbine where vessels should not go .
The turbines are required to have the lowest point of the rotor sweep at least 22 metres above Mean High Water Springs . This clearance should be ample for the majority of small craft . Those with a greater air draught should be aware of this height , and take appropriate care .
The offshore wind industry is rapidly developing as the offshore oil industry did 40 years ago with installations changing from expensive fixed structures to cheaper and more easily installed floating ones , held in place by conventional moorings .
Of course , Rampion and its ilk will continue to be in place until the subsidy schemes under which they are built expire .
Tidal energy technology is also progressing and recently a site has been earmarked off St Catherine ’ s Point as a test and development site for such systems – a site chosen for its strong tidal currents .
The Perpetuus Tidal Energy Centre will provide a “ unique ‘ live ’ setting for tidal turbine manufacturers to enhance their technology while supplying the grid ”.
A number of different floating systems have been successfully trialled , two of which are pictured , and small scale farms are being planned .
The move into deeper waters benefits from stronger , more reliable winds and no visual impact from the shore . They will have less effect on our cruising waters than the existing ones do .
Alternative Floating Wind Turbine
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