In a previous blog Emerging Offshore Wind Risks -Not Just Safety we highlighted that the next phase of our energy transition. This will see an ever more complex and interconnected energy infrastructure being developed. Many of the innovations in offshore wind have been iterative improvements at a project, asset, or operational level. These continuous improvements have led to a radical reduction in the Levelised Costs of Energy/Electricity (LOCE) across the lifecycle of project development (DEVEX/CAPEX/OPEX).
While we can expect these improvements to continue, we will also see many other innovations and technological developments taking a higher profile. Some of which may become “standard” in the years to come. These developments and “disruptions” should overall be positive. However – we must also acknowledge the risks – Threats & Opportunities – that this rapid change may create.
The sheer speed of the adoption and impact of AI applications make clear that reactive / lagging approaches to risk and governance oversight will not be enough. Global/macro solutions must be taken forward. However, sectors with highly exposed infrastructure and assets such as renewables must increasingly be taking a lead.
· How do we support the demand for standardisation while not restricting future innovations?
· What is the right regulatory environment and are the regulators properly resourced?
· Have we got the right industry groups & networks that go beyond current technology silos?
The good news is we probably have most of the building blocks in place – with key stakeholders such as RenewableUK; Carbon Trust; ORE Catapult etc. increasingly taking a more visible lead. However still more to do – so shout out to RUK Cyber Security Seminar where many of these themes will be picked up.
We will also be on a “safety panel” at RUK Hydrogen 24. This is where we hope to be able to highlight the importance of openness & transparency; early and proactive stakeholder engagement and the need for the industry to lead in the creation of “standards”. So, check out latest updates at here.
2024 is the 50th and anniversary of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Robens and the Act were ahead of the curve recognising the need for a goal setting approach to risk control. We need to revisit one the key recommendations …. “Those that create the risks are responsible for managing them”.
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A new IEC Technical Specification 61400-31:2023 – Wind energy generation systems. Part 31: Siting risk assessment has recently been published.
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