Ørsted Installs UK's First Nearshore Artificial Nesting Structures for Kittiwakes at Hornsea 3
Ørsted has installed the UK's first nearshore artificial nesting structures for black-legged kittiwakes at the Hornsea 3 offshore wind farm, aiming to protect the species while advancing renewable energy development. The three structures, each capable of housing up to 500 pairs, utilize advanced technologies for precise installation, facilitating the breeding of approximately 1,500 pairs of kittiwakes. This initiative highlights the potential for innovative solutions to support biodiversity in the offshore wind sector.
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Ørsted has installed the UK's first nearshore artificial nesting structures for the black-legged kittiwake at the Hornsea 3 offshore wind farm. This initiative aims to protect the seabird's declining population while facilitating the development of the world's largest offshore wind farm.
Three structures, each housing up to 500 pairs of kittiwakes, were built using monopiles driven into the seabed. To enhance installation precision, Ørsted partnered with Red7Marine and Fugro, utilizing Starfix® and InclinoCam® technologies for remote and accurate monopile positioning and verticality monitoring.
These technologies reduced installation time and improved safety by minimizing human intervention. The artificial nests will secure breeding space for approximately 1,500 pairs of kittiwakes, balancing renewable energy development with biodiversity protection. This project exemplifies how innovative approaches can support ecological conservation in the offshore wind sector.
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