Ocean surveys kick off at 2.6 GW Virginia offshore wind project

TerraSond has started conducting geophysical studies at the 2.6 GW Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project lease area.

TerraSond began the work earlier this month at the 112,800ha site 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach where the 2.6 GW project will be built beginning in 2024.

The surveys will provide the geological, biological, and oceanographic data needed to support planning and construction.

Ultimately, this data will support the preparation of the project’s Construction and Operations Plan to be submitted to the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) later this year.

The developer Dominion Energy secured the CVOW lease area in 2013. The 2.6 GW project will comprise Siemens Gamesa turbines, with installation expected to be completed by 2026.

The company is also developing the CVOW pilot project, which will provide the operational, weather, and environmental experience needed for the large-scale development.