How Wozep results are used
The knowledge developed by Wozep helps inform policy decisions regarding offshore wind energy. For example, in spatial planning, in decisions on site allocation, in environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and in the development of mitigation measures.
The Wozep research results are used in environmental impact assessments drawn up at every stage of a wind farm’s development. Ecological knowledge is important right from the outset, when exploring locations in the North Sea that may be suitable for wind farms. This enables us to identify areas where certain species are particularly vulnerable.
The Wozep research findings can, for example, also lead to specific requirements in site allocation decisions in order to minimise negative ecological impacts as much as possible. One example is a requirement regarding the maximum underwater noise that may be caused by the installation of the piles for a wind farm. Research has shown that this is important for the protection of marine mammals, such as the porpoise. The developer of a wind farm will have to implement mitigation measures to limit underwater noise.
Assessment of future scenarios
The Framework for Assessing Ecological and Cumulative Effects (KEC) is a tool for gaining an understanding of the ecological impacts of a future wind farm scenario. An important component of the KEC is the knowledge base. This incorporates (parts of) Wozep’s research findings as well as relevant research findings from other organisations with which Wozep collaborates or maintains contact. For example, maps showing population densities or the number of flight movements of certain animal species may form part of this knowledge base.
This knowledge component is continually updated with new research findings. Based on this knowledge, calculations can be made regarding the impacts of future wind farm scenarios on the North Sea. As the KEC is constantly kept up to date, should there be a need for current knowledge from a policy or management perspective, a new calculation can be carried out with little effort, based on the most recent information. For example, if a new roadmap for offshore wind energy needs to be drawn up, the KEC calculations show what impact that roadmap will have on the populations of certain protected species.
