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This report summarises a workshop hosted by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Deputy to the Secretary of State’s Representative (SOSREP) for Maritime Salvage and Intervention, held in Aberdeen to address emergency response challenges associated with floating offshore wind turbines. With growing concerns about how to respond to incidents involving drifting or sinking turbines, the session brought together key stakeholders from government and industry to review existing procedures and propose actionable improvements.

  • Document Type: Report

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Description

Key Features:

  • Emergency Response Planning: The workshop assessed Emergency Response Co-operation Plans (ERCOPs) and stakeholder roles in scenarios involving drifting or disconnected floating wind turbines.
  • Industry Collaboration: Over 30 representatives from MCA, HSE, OREEF, wind farm developers, insurers, and other key organisations participated in scenario-based discussions and knowledge-sharing.
  • Comprehensive Recommendations: The report outlines 20 recommendations, covering topics such as emergency towing plans, training needs, salvage planning, notification protocols, marine pollution contingency plans, and insurance considerations.
  • Notable Observations: Highlights included gaps in legislation (e.g. Wreck Removal Convention), the need for standardised Aids to Navigation, and risks associated with turbine blade movement post-disconnection.
  • Next Steps: A subgroup under OREEF will be formed to explore floating wind guidance further, with plans for a follow-up scenario workshop in six months.