Seeing the light - Development programme announced for SeaZephIR Laser Anemometer

Abstract:

<p>This documents is an article on 'Seeing the light - Development programme announced for SeaZephIR Laser Anemometer'.</p> <p>QinetiQ, together with npower renewables, Trinity House Lighthouse Service, and with funding from the DTI, has announced a major new collaborative project to develop its buoy-mounted LIDAR anemometry system, known as SeaZephIR.</p> <p>The project aims to turn an established technology - light detection and ranging (LIDAR) - into an exciting and viable new solution to measure wind for the optimal siting of offshore wind farms.</p> <p>SeaZephIR is a derivation of QinetiQ's land-based ZephIR system which has been trialled successfully in the UK and in Denmark. Designed to be a floating laser anemometer, the SeaZephIR system will help to ensure the optimal siting of offshore wind farms and positioning of the wind turbines, both of which require a thorough understanding of local wind behaviour.</p> <p>Mounted on a floating buoy, SeaZephIR reduces the requirement to install more expensive, fixed meteorology mast. The system can operate independently offshore for long periods, and can be swiftly redeployed. It is anticipated that the SeaZephIR system will bring both increased flexibility and cost-savings to the rapidly growing offshore renewables industry.</p> <p>The project team will be led by QinetiQ, with Trinity House Lighthouse Service providing the buoy, supporting systems, and all communications and maintenance support. Further to its financial support, npower renewables will also provide expertise in offshore wind measurements, and data from its fixed offshore meteorology masts which will be used for validation purposes.</p>

Author(s):

QinetiQ