Young people from Sea Cadets in Aberdeen were given a hands-on introduction to the technologies helping deliver the next generation of offshore wind projects during a technology showcase hosted by Nadara and ocean data specialist XOCEAN.

The event gave eighteen cadets the opportunity to see first-hand how advanced survey technologies are being used to support development of the proposed Bellrock Offshore Wind Farm and explore the wide range of careers involved in the offshore wind sector.

During the showcase, XOCEAN demonstrated its uncrewed surface vessel (USV) technology and explained how remotely operated vessels, digital data collection and marine surveys support the design, engineering and environmental assessment of offshore wind projects.

The technology demonstrated forms part of the survey programme being undertaken to support Bellrock’s development and consenting programme. The surveys are collecting high-resolution seabed and environmental data along a potential offshore export cable corridor, helping inform engineering design, environmental assessments and future project decisions.

The session also explored the different types of marine and environmental surveys undertaken during offshore wind development, and how the information gathered helps developers understand seabed conditions, environmental sensitivities and potential engineering constraints.

The demonstration prompted a range of questions from the cadets, including how long the USV can remain at sea, how marine surveys are carried out and the practical considerations involved in operating uncrewed technology offshore.
Along with learning about the diverse range of career opportunities across the offshore wind industry, Cadets were also introduced to the different stages of an offshore wind project, from development and surveying through to construction and operation, as well as some of the challenges associated with connecting offshore wind farms to the electricity grid.

The event formed part of Nadara’s ongoing commitment to engaging with local communities and helping inspire the next generation of people who will design, build and operate the renewable energy projects of the future.

David Robertson, Portfolio Director at Nadara, said: “One of the most rewarding parts of developing projects like Bellrock is the opportunity to show young people the innovation and expertise involved in bringing offshore wind projects to life.
“The cadets were able to see first-hand how technologies such as uncrewed vessels, digital surveying and remote operations are being used in the offshore energy sector today, while learning about the many different careers that support these projects.
“Scotland already has world-class offshore energy expertise, and we hope events like this encourage more young people to consider the exciting opportunities available across the industry.”

James Ives, CEO of XOCEAN, said: “We had a great evening with the Aberdeen Sea Cadets, bringing one of our uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) along to their base. With plenty of questions from the cadets, it was a great opportunity to show how uncrewed vessels, remote operations and digital data are changing the way work is carried out offshore. Behind the technology is a diverse team of engineers, marine specialists, surveyors, software developers, data scientists and remote operators. We hope the visit gave the cadets a sense of the range of exciting careers available across the offshore energy sector.”

Peter Ritchie, Commanding Officer at Sea Cadets, Aberdeen, said: “We’re grateful to Nadara and XOCEAN for giving our cadets the opportunity to experience the innovation helping to shape the future of offshore wind in Scotland.
“Seeing this technology up close and hearing directly from the people developing and using it gave our young people a valuable insight into the wide range of careers available across the offshore energy sector. From engineering and marine operations to environmental science, digital technology and remote operations, the opportunities are incredibly diverse.
Nadara’s commitment to engaging with local communities and inspiring future talent is important for young people across the north-east of Scotland. Experiences like this help our cadets understand how the skills they are developing today could lead to exciting careers that support the UK’s energy transition in the years ahead.”