ExoHedron for Offshore Wind Scour Protection
➤ July 2023 ➤ META Test Site, Pembrokeshire ➤ Hiraeth Energy ➤ MEECE ➤ ORE Catapult
Problem
Conventional forms of scour and coastal protection provide few habitats for marine species, and typically exist in the form of non-local quarried rock which has a high carbon footprint. We aim to provide low-carbon alternatives with Nature Inclusive Design, achieving project objectives whilst using conventional deployment methods.
Solution
Exo Engineering provide low-carbon alternatives to conventional scour protection which incorporate Nature Inclusive Design. In this way, we can work with clients to ensure that project goals are achieved whilst creating new habitats for marine life.
Our ‘ExoHedron', part of our ExoReef family, incorporates flat edges for ease of transport as well as our Greening the Grey® technology, which encourages biocolonisation. The Nature Inclusive Design also provides shelter for juvenile fish and crustaceans in the form of swim-through tunnels, helping them to avoid predation and breed. Additionally, colonisation of algae over the customisable surface textures generates food sources for the surrounding area.
Results
Our clients are able to combine the mitigation environmental impacts which have been outlined in Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) whilst providing essential scour protection for offshore wind infrastructure. Using scaleable ExoReef units can help us to boost marine biodiversity through habitat creation whilst achieving our own development goals.
