ABSD Introduces LiDAR Technology for Offshore Wind Projects

AB Surveying and Development (ABSD) has introduced a cutting-edge Aerial Bathymetric LiDAR system in the Philippines, designed to expedite underwater surveys critical for offshore wind projects.

The new technology aims to address challenges faced by renewable energy developers in assessing seabed conditions for project planning.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is preparing to launch the Green Energy Auction for offshore wind capacities next year, giving developers eight months to submit bids. However, these developers face hurdles in determining seabed conditions for their projects, which are crucial for safe and efficient wind farm development.

Former DOE Undersecretary Atty. Jose Layug Jr. emphasized the importance of the Marine Spatial Plan, which identifies areas unsuitable for offshore wind projects, aiding developers in their site selection process.

ABSD has introduced the Riegl VQ-840-G, an advanced aerial LiDAR system mounted on a Cessna aircraft, which uses a green laser capable of penetrating water to survey shallow depths. This system can cover up to 20 kilometers in just two minutes, compared to the one to two hours needed for traditional boat-based methods.

Engr. Antonio “Tony” Botor, founder and general manager of ABSD, highlighted the system’s speed advantage. “With considerably faster acquisition speed versus other surveying options, aerial bathymetric LiDAR can secure data at a pace that immediately translates to a quick turnaround time for the delivery of the bathymetric map, allowing firms to design and plan efficiently,” Botor said.

In addition to speed, the LiDAR system provides a 3D model of the seabed, offering developers precise visualizations without the need for random site checks. This technology is especially beneficial for projects in shallow waters, with depths up to 30 meters, depending on water clarity.

ABSD’s adoption of this technology provides a faster, safer, and more efficient alternative to traditional surveying methods, which are often delayed by rough sea conditions. This new solution is essential for renewable energy firms working on offshore wind projects, port, and pier developers.

“Our clients from the renewable energy industry are almost always in a race against time. Our services offer this solution: an expedited establishment of their projects, quicker implementation, and a more timely contribution to renewable energy initiatives,” Botor added.

ABSD also provides other surveying solutions, including Multibeam Echosounder for deep-water mapping and mobile and terrestrial LiDAR services. Their expertise spans across renewable energy sectors, offering precise mapping and infrastructure planning for both onshore and offshore projects.

The Aerial Bathymetric LiDAR system, first developed in 2019, has quickly become a vital tool for modern surveying, especially for countries with vast coastlines like the Philippines. Accurate underwater surveys are critical for determining safe docking locations and understanding depth variations near shorelines, crucial for offshore wind energy development.