The offshore wind engineering consultancy, Wood Thilsted Partners Limited, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with industry leaders and prestigious research institutions to launch an ambitious Joint Industry Project (JIP). This collaborative effort aims to redefine the design of offshore wind farms with a truly nature-inclusive approach, promoting positive impacts on ecosystems throughout the lifecycle of the projects.

A comprehensive approach throughout the lifecycle

The JIP will address nature inclusivity at every phase of offshore wind farm development: from initial planning and construction to decommissioning. The goal is to design projects that not only respect but also benefit marine and coastal ecosystems, through innovations in environmental design and operational practices.

Leading companies in the wind sector, such as Arup, COWI, and NIRAS, have expressed interest in joining as founding members, emphasizing the industry's commitment to this cause.

Environmental impact and business opportunity

Emerging regulations in countries such as the Netherlands, Denmark, and the UK reflect an increasing demand for standards that combine the fight against climate change with the protection of biodiversity. In the UK, for instance, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regulations are already in effect for onshore projects, and their extension to marine environments is anticipated.

Simon Turpin, Project Manager, highlighted that participants in the JIP will gain early access to innovative strategies and insights, which could provide a valuable advantage as nature-inclusive designs become a standard for success.

Towards a sustainable and nature-respecting energy transition

In the context of transitioning to renewable energy sources to achieve carbon neutrality, experts like Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency, have emphasized that we are living in an "age of electricity," driven by the rise of solar and wind energy. However, this transformation must not compromise natural ecosystems.

“In addition to the race to net zero, it is urgent to restore ecosystems and recover biodiversity,” said Danny Bonnett, Director of Sustainability at Wood Thilsted and Chair of the JIP. “It’s not enough to minimize harm; we must generate measurable positive impacts on biodiversity. This project is a crucial step in integrating regenerative principles into offshore wind farm design.”

An invitation for global collaboration

Although the JIP does not aim to establish marine net gain metrics, it will closely monitor developments in this field and encourages more industry players to participate.

“The strength of this initiative lies in interdisciplinary collaboration. Addressing the twin challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss is a generational task that requires a globally coordinated response,” concluded Bonnett.

Shaping the future of renewable energy development

This ambitious joint project led by Wood Thilsted represents a significant step toward an energy transition that harmonizes the development of renewable energy with the protection and restoration of natural ecosystems. By fostering collaboration among companies, institutions, and experts, this initiative aims not only to mitigate environmental impact but to generate tangible benefits for marine and coastal biodiversity, setting a global standard for truly sustainable and nature-inclusive offshore wind farm design.