Two new activities are due to take place in the Gwynt y Môr Offshore Windfarm area in the next few days. The new jack up rig, Frederich Ernestine, is due to start trials on site; and a high-tech buoy for monitoring windspeed is due to be installed. The key aspects of these activities are summarised in this notice.
Frederich Ernestine
The Frederich Ernestine is a dynamically positioned jack-up vessel. On the 27th September 2012 the vessel entered the Gwynt y Môr site to commence trials, which will be carried out at four locations (illustrated here).
Once these trials have been completed the vessel will then assist with the installation of monopiles and transition pieces at the site.
The vessel will operate using dynamic positioning when manoeuvering into position before “jacking up” clear of the water. The vessel has a length of 99m and a beam of 40m. All vessels are advised to keep at least 500m clear of Frederich Ernestine at all times. She will monitor VHF Channel 16 at all times (call sign DIPC2)
A notice to mariners describing the activities of the Frederich Ernestine can be downloaded here. Information about the current location and recent movements of the Frederich Ernestine can be accessed from the MarineTraffic.com website here.
Windspeed monitoring “FLIDAR” buoy
A Floating Light Detection and Ranging (FLIDAR) buoy is due to be installed at a location between the Gwynt y Môr Met Mast and the North East Cardinal Buoy. The deployment location is approximately 100m South East of the Meteorological Mast.
This buoy is equipped with electronic equipment for monitoring windspeed. Installation is expected to take place when there is a suitable 1-2 day weather window anytime between 27th September and mid October 2012. The buoy is expected to remain in place for 6 months.
The buoy will be installed by the workboat Voe Chief. A notice about the FLIDAR buoy and its installation can be downloaded here. Information about the Voe Chief, including her current location and recent movements, can be accessed from the MarineTraffic.com website here.
The Voe Chief will monitor VHF Channel 16 at all times (call sign 2CRL5).
Please contact Jim Andrews, Fishery Liaison Officer by e-mail or phone (+44(0)7908-225865) if you have any queries or concerns about these activities.