The wind farm and the marine environment
Some 30 measures implemented
Action Items
- Monitoring of breeding colonies
- Monitoring of marine mammals and birds by boat and by plane (high-definition cameras)
- Acoustic monitoring of marine mammals using acoustic stations made up of hydrophones
- Monitoring of birds by terrestrial radar at Cap Fréhel
- Monitoring of fisheries resources (fish, bivalves, cuttlefish, etc.)
- Monitoring of benthic biocenoses and sediment quality
- Modelling of turbidity during the construction phase
...
Accompanying measures
- R&D program for the evaluation of the impact of underwater noise generated during the works on the fisheries resource
- Modelling of turbidity during the works phase
- Viewpoints and information panels
- Definition and implementation of a tourist offer in conjunction with the local stakeholders
Reduction and avoidance measures
- Reduction of the disturbance of the Balearic shearwater during the period of internuptial presence
- Reduction of the photoattraction in construction
Compensation measures
- Regulation of bird egg predation on Tomé Island by the American mink
- Regulation of egg predation on Cap Fréhel
- Awareness zone for marine mammals
Action Items
Accompanying measures
Reduction and avoidance measures
Compensation measures
The objective of the "avoid, reduce, compensate" (ERC) sequence is to avoid environmental damage, to reduce that which could not be sufficiently avoided and, if possible, to compensate for the significant effects that could not be avoided or sufficiently reduced. It applies to projects, plans and programs subject to environmental assessment as well as to projects subject to various procedures under the environmental code (environmental authorization, derogation for the protection of species, Natura 2000 impact assessment, etc.).
All impacts are assessed through a monitoring programme that focuses on all compartments (physical, chemical, biological, use). In addition, some accompanying measures are implemented to improve local knowledge.
The environmental studies carried out as part of the project
The impact study and the initial state
In 2015, an initial assessment of the marine environment was carried out as part of the impact study. This initial state is based on observations made from 2012 to 2015. The environmental studies carried out for the initial state concerned the physical environment (current, tide, geology, water quality, etc.) and the living environment (marine flora and fauna, birds and bats, etc.), but also the natural and heritage environments, the landscape and the socio-economic aspects.
The AU-IOTA Single Authorization
On 18 April 2017, the wind farm off the coast of the Bay of Saint-Brieuc, carried by Ailes Marines, obtained the administrative authorisation known as "Autorisation Unique IOTA". This authorisation was issued by the Côtes-d'Armor Prefecture, under the provisions of Articles L.214-1 et seq. of the Environmental Code, and prescribes several follow-up, reduction, compensation or accompanying measures.
Actions followed locally
The actions carried out by Ailes Marines as part of the environmental measures are monitored and evaluated by a Management and Monitoring Committee. This committee was created specifically for the wind farm by prefectural order of 30/10/2017, and chaired by the prefect of the Côtes d'Armor. It is mainly composed of representatives of the State, local authorities, Natura 2000 sites, professional fishermen, nature reserves. The latter can rely as much as necessary on the expert opinions of the Scientific Council created for the park.
Diversified environmental measures
With a view to limiting and monitoring the impact of the construction and operation of the park on the environment, Ailes Marines is implementing numerous monitoring, reduction and compensation measures.
Environmental management system
The project is governed by an Environmental Management System (EMS ) adapted to the specificities of the offshore wind activity and the environmental sensitivities of the Bay of Saint-Brieuc. The EMS of the Saint-Brieuc project has been certified ISO 14001:2015 in 2022.
The proper functioning of this system ensures the prevention of environmental impact risks during all phases of the project, as well as the continuous improvement of its environmental performance.
Research and development
Participation of recognized experts
Ailes Marines has surrounded itself with numerous experts in order to carry out quality monitoring.
Two research programs on the impact of noise have been launched in 2018/2019 on scallops, clams and cuttlefish. They are led by Laurent Chauvaud of the CNRS and Michel André of theUniversity of Barcelona. These programs, at the forefront of research, will provide a better understanding of the impacts of noise in the Saint-Brieuc project.
A world first, they will be useful for the entire profession and for the Marine Renewable Energy sector.
Research support
Ailes Marines wanted to support research for the marine environment by getting involved with local actors.
For example, the RESIBAD project aimed to develop expertise and operational tools for the characterization and validation of underwater noise reduction devices.
This project has improved the understanding of the effects of bubble curtains on sound wave propagation.
Want to know more?
Browse our booklets
The Balearic shearwater booklet
Please wait while flipbook is loading. For more related info, FAQs and issues please refer to DearFlip WordPress Flipbook Plugin Help documentation.
The Marine Mammal Booklet
Please wait while flipbook is loading. For more related info, FAQs and issues please refer to DearFlip WordPress Flipbook Plugin Help documentation.
Our environmental policy
Please wait while flipbook is loading. For more related info, FAQs and issues please refer to DearFlip WordPress Flipbook Plugin Help documentation.