PGE Baltica has taken a significant stride in its offshore wind ambitions, signing an agreement with Geofizyka Toruń to conduct crucial geophysical research for the Baltica 9 Offshore Wind Farm project. This 975MW venture, nestled in the northern expanse of the Słupsk Bank, less than 50 km from Poland’s coastline, is poised to reshape the nation’s energy landscape.
The upcoming research, slated to commence in the first half of May and stretch until mid-June 2025, will employ high-resolution reflection seismic methods coupled with simultaneous bathymetric measurements. This approach will allow for a preliminary analysis of the area’s potential, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subbottom geological structure to a depth of 100 metres. “The seismic method used will enable precise recognition of the subbottom geological structure to a depth of 100 metres, as well as identification of risk factors related to geology,” a spokesperson for PGE Baltica confirmed.
The data gathered will be instrumental in identifying potential geological hazards, such as shallow gas concentrations, paleochannels, or boulder clay packages. This information is vital for the safe and efficient planning and construction of the offshore wind farm. The completion of analytical work and delivery of results is scheduled for November this year, setting a clear timeline for the project’s progression.
Geofizyka Toruń, the company tasked with this critical research, was selected through an open tender procedure. This collaboration marks another instance of PGE Baltica’s commitment to involving domestic suppliers in the offshore wind energy value chain. The company has previously conducted research for the Baltica 1 project, demonstrating its expertise and reliability in this field.
The Baltica 9 Offshore Wind Farm is one of the five areas granted to PGE in 2023. It is set to be constructed approximately 48 km from the shore, covering an area of around 121 km2. The project’s location is strategic, situated close to other offshore wind projects implemented by PGE and the service port under construction in Ustka. This proximity is expected to facilitate efficient operations and maintenance, further enhancing the project’s viability.
The signing of this agreement signals a pivotal moment in Poland’s offshore wind sector. It underscores the country’s commitment to harnessing its wind resources and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future. The involvement of domestic companies like Geofizyka Toruń also highlights the potential for job creation and economic growth within the sector.
As the offshore wind industry in Poland continues to gain momentum, projects like Baltica 9 are set to play a crucial role in shaping the sector’s development. The insights gained from this geophysical research will not only inform the planning and construction of the Baltica 9 Offshore Wind Farm but also contribute to the broader understanding of Poland’s offshore wind potential. This, in turn, could pave the way for more ambitious projects and further investment in the sector. The coming months will be pivotal, as the research unfolds and the true potential of the Słupsk Bank area is revealed. The energy sector is watching closely, eager to see how this project will influence the trajectory of Poland’s offshore wind ambitions.
