DNV has 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.

SEAWATCH buoy. Source: Fugro

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, DNV said.

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, according to DNV.

Natalia Signorelli, Metocean Consultancy Lead at Fugro, said: ”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.”

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.

”DNV’s role as advisors is essential in helping organizations navigate the energy transition, with a focus on sustainability,” Santiago Blanco, Executive Vice President & Regional Director for Latin America, Energy Systems at DNV, highlighted the importance of this milestone.

”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.”

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