RYDER announced the successful completion of a geotechnical site investigation for an esteemed offshore floating tidal turbine project. The project, located at the Fall of Warness EMEC test site in Orkney, represents a significant advancement in the floating wind and tidal energy sector.

This project aligns with recent developments in the UK’s commitment to renewable energy. In May, the UK Government announced a substantial £4.6 million support package aimed at bolstering the development of the UK’s islands, with £3 million specifically allocated to the Orkney-based European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) over the next two years. This funding boost is set to play a pivotal role in supporting EMEC’s ambitious growth plans, aiding the centre in advancing the UK’s net zero goals, fostering innovation and research investment, and promoting green growth and economic development within island communities.

Following this announcement, EMEC outlined a set of key manifesto asks for the upcoming general election, designed to unlock green growth opportunities in ocean energy within UK waters. EMEC described these proposals as essential to enabling the UK to fully realise its renewable and marine energy potential, thereby supporting the nation’s progress towards achieving net zero.

The geotechnical site investigation was conducted to assess the suitability of ground conditions for the design of grouted anchor piles essential for the tidal turbine’s stability. Geotechnical operations were carried out using advanced drilling equipment, allowing for the acquisition of rotary rock core samples from the seabed around the planned anchor locations.

Onboard, RYDER’s geotechnical specialists conducted detailed logging of the core samples in accordance with British Standards.

“COMPLETING THIS GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION SWIFTLY AND EFFICIENTLY UNDERSCORES OUR COMMITMENT TO SUPPORTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF INNOVATIVE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS,” SAID FRASER GIBSON, MANAGING DIRECTOR AT RYDER. “THIS PROJECT NOT ONLY HIGHLIGHTS OUR EXPERTISE IN GEOTECHNICAL SERVICES BUT ALSO ALIGNS WITH OUR STRATEGIC FOCUS ON ADVANCING THE FLOATING WIND AND TIDAL ENERGY MARKET.”

A representative from the client remarked on the collaboration: “Working with RYDER on this project has been a highly productive experience. Their expertise and efficiency in conducting the geotechnical investigation have been invaluable to the project’s progress and success. We look forward to continuing our collaboration on future initiatives.”

The successful completion of this investigation marks a crucial step forward for the project, paving the way for the development of robust and reliable grouted anchor piles. RYDER is proud to be a part of this ground-breaking initiative, contributing our expertise to drive innovation in the offshore renewable energy sector.