By Jocelyn Brown.
As offshore wind farms move into deeper waters and more challenging environments, the need for detailed subsurface information becomes even more critical.
Developers and contractors in the offshore wind industry face a mounting challenge: understanding the complex and often unpredictable conditions beneath the seabed.
Integrated ground models (IGMs) visualise the necessary data to tackle these complex projects with confidence, providing a complete subsurface picture in one model, an approach that’s becoming a standard for the industry.
Ground models range from simple geotechnical datasets to advanced, integrated 3D representations combining geophysical and geotechnical properties. These models place data in geological context, enabling interpretation of subsurface complexities and geohazards at scales from sub-metre to kilometres – supporting more informed and resilient engineering design.
Other factors are driving their more widespread adoption.
Technological Advancements: Advances in geophysical survey techniques and data integration software have made it easier to create detailed and accurate ground models. High-resolution seismic data, for example, can now be seamlessly integrated with geotechnical data to provide a comprehensive view of the subsurface.
Regulatory Requirements: Many regulatory bodies now require detailed subsurface investigations as part of the permitting process for offshore wind projects. IGMs provide a robust framework for meeting these requirements and ensuring compliance.
Industry Standards: As the benefits of IGMs become more apparent, standards and best practices are evolving to incorporate their use. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) has been actively involved in the development IGMs for offshore wind sites. The IGMs are part of the RVO’s broader strategy to support the Dutch government’s offshore wind energy roadmap 2030.
How are integrated ground models reshaping how we visualise, communicate and act on data?
Better Decisions, Faster
By providing a detailed picture of the seabed and sub-seabed conditions, ground models mitigate risk by helping identify potential geohazards such as boulders, steep slopes, and soft sediments.
This information is crucial for designing safe and stable foundations for wind turbines. Seequent’s integrated ground model visualises geophysical data from Oasis montaj to identify and map unexploded ordnance on the sea floor.
These models support decision-making throughout the project lifecycle—from survey planning to turbine layout and foundation design. They evolve with the project, updating as new data becomes available.
Single Source of Truth
Holistic 3D visualisation: 3D ground models integrate geophysical, geotechnical, and environmental data into a single, interactive visualisation. This enables developers to identify geohazards, soil zonation, and foundation options across the entire site.
Enhanced Collaboration: IGMs foster better communication and collaboration among geoscientists, engineers, and project managers. With a shared understanding of the subsurface conditions, teams can make more informed decisions and work more cohesively
Seequent’s integrated ground modelling workflow for offshore wind.
Stakeholder engagement
3D visualisations make complex data accessible to non-technical audiences, enhancing transparency and collaboration.
Cost Efficiency
By integrating various data sources, IGMs reduce the need for redundant surveys and investigations. This not only saves time but also cuts down on the costs associated with data collection and analysis.
Optimised Design
With accurate subsurface data, engineers can design foundations and other structures that are tailored to the specific conditions of the site. This leads to more efficient use of materials and reduces the risk of over-engineering.
A new standard for site visualisation
The integrated ground model is a powerful tool that is transforming the way offshore wind projects are planned and executed. By providing a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the subsurface conditions, IGMs help mitigate risks, optimise designs, and reduce costs.
As technological advancements continue and industry standards evolve, IGMs are becoming standard practice in the offshore wind industry, paving the way for safer, more efficient, and more sustainable energy projects.
For a more detailed look at Integrated Ground Modelling and Seequent’s end-to-end workflow for offshore wind, watch the first in our Offshore Wind Insights webinar series, Offshore Wind Insights: Exploring Integrated 3D Ground Models.