Long-Term EMF Measurements
Around buried export cables connecting offshore wind farms to the mainland, electromagnetic fields (EMF) are generated by the electrical current flowing through the cables. These EMF may potentially affect marine life. The magnitude of these fields and their potential impact are largely unknown. To gain a better understanding of these fields, we developed an autonomous EMF measurement station capable of continuously measuring EMF with nanotesla-level accuracy.
- Client: TenneT
- Location: Borssele
Electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by offshore export cables may affect sensitive fish species, such as rays and sharks. These animals rely on the Earth’s natural magnetic field and use it for navigation. Understanding the extent of EMF emissions is therefore important for assessing potential ecological effects on marine life.
To map actual EMF levels and interactions between multiple export cables, we developed our own EMF sensor station. The station was installed to perform long-term EMF measurements above an export cable. Our custom-designed measurement station was specifically developed for accuracy and reliability in challenging environments, allowing us to collect high-quality data over extended periods. The results of these measurements are essential for assessing potential impacts on marine and terrestrial ecosystems and provide valuable information for environmental monitoring and risk assessment related to offshore energy projects.
The autonomous EMF station measured EMF levels for more than a year above both AC and DC export cables. These measurements provided valuable insights into how EMF strength fluctuates under different operating conditions. A strong correlation with wind speed was also observed, along with a baseline residual EMF level during periods of low wind speeds when the turbines were not operating.
This innovative measurement campaign demonstrates our commitment to advancing EMF research and contributing to the responsible development of sustainable energy infrastructure.
Take a look at our other projects
Underwater sound DEMASK
The DEMASK project aims to develop and test policy scenarios for continuous underwater noise in the North Sea. Through measurements, the project investigates to what extent anthropogenic noise sources contribute to underwater noise and what impact this has on the marine ecosystem. With measurement setups on the bottom of the North Sea, long-term measurements are conducted, and data is collected that provides insight in the noise distribution in the North Sea.
Ecowende
Ecowende, a collaboration between Shell, Chubu and Eneco, is developing north-west Europe’s most environmentally friendly offshore wind farm at Hollandse Kust West. To minimise the impact on the marine ecosystem, extensive research is being carried out by WaterProof on the presence and behaviour of porpoises and underwater noise levels during the construction and operation of the wind farm. This research will provide essential knowledge for balancing sustainable energy production and nature conservation in the North Sea.
Flow and sediment transport with an innovative sand wing
Annually, approximately sand nourishments with a total volume of 12 million cubic meters strengthen the Dutch coastline. Projections indicate that this amount will be insufficient in the near future to ensure the safety of the Netherlands due to climate change and the related rise in sea levels. Within the program ‘Innovatie in de Kustlijnzorg’ (IKZ), WaterProof is collaborating with Waardenburg Ecologie and the University of Groningen (RUG) on an innovation called ‘Sand Wing.’ Through scale experiments and modelling, it is being investigated whether the Sand Wing can serve as an alternative to the conventional method of beach nourishment along the coast
