XOCEAN has secured a contract for seabed data collection at the proposed site for what would be the Isle of Man’s first offshore wind farm.
This project follows positive feedback for the Mooir Vannin Offshore Wind Farm by Ørsted during community events held across the Island last November.
Commencing in March, XOCEAN will conduct up to five weeks of geophysical surveys around 6 to 12 nautical miles off Maughold Head.
Seabed surveys
These surveys will focus on the area leased to Ørsted by the Isle of Man Government in 2015, assessing potential cable routes to the island, including Douglas Bay and Douglas Harbour.
Using Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs), XOCEAN will gather crucial seabed data for optimal wind turbine and cable placement.
These USVs are designed for sustainability, efficiency, and low carbon footprint, with durability for multiple project deployments.
Ørsted will also release a report this week summarising feedback from November’s community events, with postcards containing a link to the report and a projected timeline for the wind farm’s development to be delivered to every household starting March 18.
Planning
Following this, extensive consultation and assessment phases are planned for this year, culminating in a planning application submission to the Isle of Man Government in 2025.
John Galloway, Development Director for Ørsted in the Isle of Man, thanked all those who provided community feedback and emphasised ongoing communication and updates throughout the project.
He praised XOCEAN’s expertise in offshore surveys, highlighting their role in advancing safe and low-impact survey technology.
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