Assessing options for onshore substations and cable routes

Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm

Triton Knoll is a consented round two offshore wind farm and is being constructed onshore in Lincolnshire and offshore from the coast. Our job? Developing the alternatives assessment for onshore substation options and cable routes.

We developed a consenting risk model (CRM) which uses inhouse software to screen both linear and single-site infrastructure (like substations) which offer major cost and time-saving benefits in the initial phases of a project. Based on initial defined parameters (such as Horlock or Holford Rules), the output of the CRM provides an impact profile of the route against the selected criteria. This enables routes to be drawn and analysed quickly and areas of concern to be identified. The consenting risk approach provides a starting point for consultation on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project and for projects that need to meet international finance standards (such as the development consent order). The consenting risk model also supports Schedule 4 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations as it provides a clear way of assessing alternatives. 

Once constructed, the wind farm will generate an annual electricity equivalent to the domestic needs of up to 800,000 UK households.