DNV, an independent energy expert and assurance provider, has successfully completed the first-ever verification of a stage 3 floating LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) unit in Latin America assessing the deployment and performance of Fugro’s advanced equipment.
Over a period of 55 days, DNV conducted rigorous tests on the Fugro SEAWATCH® buoy, equipped with a Zephir ZX300M LiDAR unit. The floating LiDAR system’s performance was evaluated against a reference LiDAR unit onshore, widely accepted by the industry, to verify its performance and accuracy in measuring wind and metocean data under various offshore conditions off the coast of Porto do Açu, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Accurate wind measurements are critical for the feasibility, design, and financing of offshore wind farms. Traditional methods, such as offshore meteorological masts, are expensive and complex, highlighting the demand for advanced, cost-effective solutions like floating LiDAR systems. The verification showed high data availability and low uncertainty in wind speed and direction measurements, confirming the reliability of floating LiDAR technology for offshore wind applications in Brazil. This development is pivotal in unlocking Brazil's offshore wind potential and bolstering the growth of its renewable energy sector.
The verification results mark a significant milestone for offshore wind in Latin America, demonstrating a more economical and reliable method of gathering critical data to guide decision-making for wind farm projects.
SEAWATCH floating system. (Image credit: DNV)
Natalia Signorelli, Metocean Consultancy Lead at Fugro declared that “Successfully verifying the floating LiDAR system in Brazilian waters is a significant milestone for offshore wind energy development in the region. This collaboration with DNV has enabled us to demonstrate the reliability and accuracy of our technology, paving the way for future projects.”
Santiago Blanco, Executive Vice President & Regional Director for Latin America, Energy Systems at DNV, highlighted the importance of this milestone: “DNV’s role as advisors is essential in helping organizations navigate the energy transition, with a focus on sustainability. Our contribution to the floating LiDAR verification project in Brazilian waters underlines this commitment: we provided rigorous testing and validation, ensuring the technology's performance meets the highest standards, which is critical for advancing offshore wind energy projects in Latin America.”
Leonardo Barriatto, Product Manager at DNV, added: “We are proud to have collaborated with Fugro on this groundbreaking project that showcases the potential of floating LiDAR technology for offshore wind energy in the region. Our independent verification ensures the highest level of quality and accuracy for this innovative solution, supporting the development of renewable energy in Latin America.”
