Offshore wind development requires robust environmental monitoring, yet current approaches in Australia are fragmented and insufficient. We present a collaborative initiative to create a standardized, data-driven framework for ecological monitoring in offshore wind development. The framework integrates advanced technologies, stakeholder engagement, and clear monitoring protocols across all project phases: Pre-Construction, Operational, and Post-Decommissioning.
We employ a multidisciplinary approach and expertise in marine biology, remote sensing, and data analytics to define essential monitoring components and identify suitable data collection methods, leveraging multibeam echo sounders, side-scan sonar, satellite Earth Observation, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. A key focus is developing a plan for gathering and integrating diverse data sources, including advanced techniques like Multibeam Echo Sounder and Side-scan Sonar, validated through ground-truthing and innovative data analysis.
The research focus is refined through stakeholder collaboration. We will co-develop transparent protocols with industry, government, and local communities, to ensure alignment with industry needs and regulatory requirements. We perform feasibility analysis of advanced data-processing methodologies, including real-time monitoring and augmented reality for data visualization.
The main outcome of this research is the Blueprint for monitoring, a ready-to-implement strategy for ecological assessments, which will advance offshore wind development's capacity for ecological and biodiversity stewardship in Australia.