Vastavalt nimekirjale
Meie 20.03.2023 nr 6-3/23/1131-2
Rootsi „Skidbladner” ja „Herkules”
meretuuleparkide projektide piiriülene
keskkonnamõju hindamine
Vastavalt piiriülese keskkonnamõju hindamise konventsioonile (Espoo konventsioonile) on
Rootsi teavitanud Eestit „Skidbladner” ja „Herkules” meretuuleparkide projektidest. Arendaja
Simply Blue Group kavandab püstitada Läänemeres Rootsi majandusvööndis kaks meretuuleparki:
„Skidbladner” koosneks maksimaalselt 111 tuulikust koguvõimsusega 2,2 GW ning „Herkules”
maksimaalselt 121 tuulikust koguvõimsusega 2,4 GW. Tuulikute maksimaalseks kogukõrguseks
on planeeritud 360 m. Kirjale on lisatud Rootsi saadetud ingliskeelsed projekte ning nende
elluviimisega kaasnevat keskkonnamõju kirjeldavad nn konsultatsioonidokumendid.
Lähtuvalt Rootsi määratud vastamistähtajast ootame 10. aprilliks 2023 põhjendatud arvamusi selle
kohta, kas Eesti peaks osalema kõnealuste projektide piiriülese keskkonnamõju hindamise
menetlustes. Juhul, kui peate vajalikuks Eesti osalemist „Skidbladner” ja/või „Herkules”
menetluses, on oodatud ka arvamused selle kohta, milline oluline kahjulik piiriülene
keskkonnamõju võib Eestile kaasneda, et arendaja saaks sellega arvestada keskkonnamõju
hindamise materjalide koostamisel.
Lugupidamisega
(allkirjastatud digitaalselt)
Kaupo Heinma
Asekantsler
Lisad: 1. „Skidbladner” konsultatsioonidokument
2. „Herkules” konsultatsioonidokument
Rainer Persidski, 626 2973
[email protected]
Paldiski mnt 96/ Tallinn 13522/ 626 2802/
[email protected]/ www.envir.ee/
Registrikood 70001231
Consultation document for scoping documentation concerning the construction
and operation of a wind farm in the Baltic Sea, Sweden’s Economic Zone.
09/11/2022
Skidbladner consultation document
ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Applicant Simply Blue Group
Contact: Magnus Rosenblad
Email:
[email protected]
Telephone: +46(0)768–460026
Address: Simply Blue Management, Storgatan 48, Trollhättan
Consultant Wind Sweden
Contact: Erik Magnusson
Email:
[email protected]
Telephone: +46(0)706–739168
Address: Batterivägen 2, SE-31139 Falkenberg
Author: Stina Brask Bilén & Linnéa Hallgren, Wind Sweden AB
Maps: Linnéa Hallgren, Wind Sweden AB
Quality control: Annie Larsson, Wind Sweden AB, Tove Andersson, Setterwalls Law Firm
Mapping documents are from the websites of relevant authorities including the Land Survey, County Administrative Boards,
Swedish Maritime Administration, Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management.
Skidbladner consultation document
SKIDBLADNER
Simply Blue Group (see applicant/company) intends to apply for the
necessary permits under the Swedish Economic Zone Act (SEZ) and the
Continental Shelf Act for the construction of an offshore wind farm.
The planned wind farm covers an area of approx. 1,423 km2 with a limit of
111 wind turbines with a maximum total height of 360 m to be sited within
the project area. Annual production is expected to be approx. 12 TWh.
The planned activities are expected to have a significant environmental
impact. Where activities are expected to involve a significant environmental
impact, the operator must consult on the scope of the Environmental Impact
Assessment. These documents provide the information required for the
scoping consultation and have been designed to fulfil the requirements of the
Environmental Code.
The project area, located approx. 22 km north of the Gotska Sandön, has
been developed through a location survey which included screening
competing interests, electricity requirements, biological and geological
conditions. A detailed description of the siting process can be found in
Chapter 2.1.
The consultation documents are based on available information from
mapping, data sources, existing investigations and experience. More detailed
surveys of the ground conditions, natural values, bird life, bats, marine
mammals and marine archaeology will be carried out within the scope of the
forthcoming permit application. The studies, together with the information
and comments from the consultation, will form the basis of the final design
of the wind farm and for the assessments in the environmental impact
assessment which will be produced as a basis for the permit application.
Skidbladner consultation document
CONTENTS
1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 Target for wind power and electricity production ................................................................... 1
1.1.1 Electricity demand ........................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Climate benefits ....................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Administrative information ...................................................................................................... 3
1.3.1 Operations ....................................................................................................................... 3
1.3.2 Operators ......................................................................................................................... 3
1.3.3 Consultant........................................................................................................................ 4
1.4 Scope of consultation and legislation ...................................................................................... 4
1.4.1 Authorisation and legislation ........................................................................................... 5
1.4.2 The permit process for the construction and operation of the Skidbladner wind farm .. 6
1.4.3 Scoping consultation ........................................................................................................ 6
1.4.4 Scope of consultation ...................................................................................................... 7
2 Location ....................................................................................................................................................................... 9
2.1 Location survey ........................................................................................................................ 9
2.1.1 Choice of location .......................................................................................................... 10
2.2 Zero option ............................................................................................................................ 13
3 Description of operations ................................................................................................................................. 14
3.1 Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.1 Accompanying activities ................................................................................................ 15
3.2 Design .................................................................................................................................... 15
3.2.1 Wind turbine .................................................................................................................. 15
3.2.2 Floating foundations ...................................................................................................... 18
3.2.3 Anchoring methods........................................................................................................ 20
3.3 Mains grid .............................................................................................................................. 21
3.3.1 Internal cable network ................................................................................................... 22
3.3.2 Substation ...................................................................................................................... 23
3.3.3 Export cables.................................................................................................................. 24
3.3.4 Site for connection to national grid. .............................................................................. 24
3.4 Facility .................................................................................................................................... 25
3.5 Operation ............................................................................................................................... 25
3.6 Decommissioning................................................................................................................... 25
Skidbladner consultation document
4 Area description ................................................................................................................................................... 26
4.1 Wind resources ...................................................................................................................... 26
4.2 Planning conditions................................................................................................................ 26
4.2.1 National maritime plan .................................................................................................. 26
4.2.2 HELCOM, Baltic Sea Action Plan..................................................................................... 29
4.2.3 Marine environmental management and environmental quality standards ................. 30
4.3 Overview of nearby wind farm developments ....................................................................... 31
4.4 Existing cables and lines ......................................................................................................... 32
4.5 Depth and marine geology..................................................................................................... 33
4.6 Oceanographic parameters ................................................................................................... 35
4.6.1 Currents & salinity ......................................................................................................... 35
4.6.2 Depth of visibility ........................................................................................................... 37
4.6.3 Oxygen-free seabeds ..................................................................................................... 37
4.6.4 Waves ............................................................................................................................ 38
4.6.5 Ice .................................................................................................................................. 38
4.7 National Interest .................................................................................................................... 39
4.7.1 Chapter 3 Environmental Code ...................................................................................... 39
4.7.2 Chapter 4 Environmental Code ...................................................................................... 41
4.8 Protected areas...................................................................................................................... 41
4.8.1 Natura 2000 ................................................................................................................... 42
4.8.2 Other protected areas ................................................................................................... 44
4.9 Natural environment ............................................................................................................. 45
4.9.1 Demersal plants and animals ......................................................................................... 45
4.9.2 Marine mammals ........................................................................................................... 46
4.9.3 Fish................................................................................................................................. 49
4.9.4 Birds ............................................................................................................................... 49
4.9.5 Bats ................................................................................................................................ 50
4.10 Fishing .................................................................................................................................... 50
4.11 Marine culture value .............................................................................................................. 51
4.12 Outdoor recreation and leisure ............................................................................................. 53
4.13 Landscape .............................................................................................................................. 53
4.13.1 Obstruction marking ...................................................................................................... 54
4.13.2 Visibility .......................................................................................................................... 55
5 Impact factors ....................................................................................................................................................... 57
5.1 Sound, underwater sound, operational sound, noise ............................................................ 58
5.2 Turbidity................................................................................................................................. 58
Skidbladner consultation document
5.3 Landscape .............................................................................................................................. 59
5.4 Increased shipping ................................................................................................................. 59
5.5 Collision risk ........................................................................................................................... 59
5.6 Habitat loss ............................................................................................................................ 59
5.7 New habitats .......................................................................................................................... 59
5.8 Electromagnetic field ............................................................................................................. 59
5.9 Climate, emissions to the air .................................................................................................. 59
5.10 Shadows ................................................................................................................................. 59
6 Protective measures .......................................................................................................................................... 60
7 Potential environmental impacts ................................................................................................................. 61
7.1 National interest .................................................................................................................... 61
7.2 Protected areas...................................................................................................................... 62
7.3 Natural environment ............................................................................................................. 62
7.3.1 Demersal plants and animals ......................................................................................... 62
7.3.2 Marine mammals ........................................................................................................... 63
7.3.3 Fish................................................................................................................................. 63
7.3.4 Birds ............................................................................................................................... 64
7.3.5 Bats ................................................................................................................................ 64
7.4 Fishing .................................................................................................................................... 64
7.5 Marine culture value .............................................................................................................. 65
7.6 Outdoor recreation and leisure ............................................................................................. 65
7.7 Landscape .............................................................................................................................. 65
7.8 Cumulative effects ................................................................................................................. 65
8 Planned investigations ...................................................................................................................................... 67
8.1 Seabed investigations ............................................................................................................ 67
8.2 Natural environment ............................................................................................................. 67
8.3 Cultural heritage .................................................................................................................... 67
8.4 Other surveys......................................................................................................................... 67
9 Risks and safety.................................................................................................................................................... 68
10 Local benefit ........................................................................................................................................................... 69
10.1 Socio-economic benefits ........................................................................................................ 69
10.1.1 Employment................................................................................................................... 69
10.1.2 Technical learning .......................................................................................................... 69
10.1.3 Infrastructure ................................................................................................................. 69
10.1.4 Calculations .................................................................................................................... 69
Skidbladner consultation document
11 Schedule................................................................................................................................................................... 70
12 References .............................................................................................................................................................. 72
12.1 Maps ...................................................................................................................................... 76
ANNEXES
1. Proposed consultation group
Skidbladner consultation document
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Target for wind power and electricity production
At the start of 2022, the EU Parliament voted to agree a strategy for renewable offshore renewable
electricity. The strategy laid out the parliament’s recommendations to establish at least 60 GW offshore
wind power by 2030 and 300 GW by 2050. This is the same goal proposed by the European Commission
in its 2020 strategy. To achieve the 2030 and 2050 climate goals, more rapid expansion of renewable
offshore energy is required, while marine areas and coastlines must be sustainably managed, as empha-
sised in the adopted strategy(Svensk vindenergi, 2022).
Wind power is an important source for Sweden to achieve its energy policy targets. The targets state
that Swedish electricity production will be 100 % fossil fuel free by 20401 and that there will be no net
emissions of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere by 2045 (Energimyndigheten, 2021a). This target
means that wind power is an important part of the transition to a more ecologically sustainable society.
Only by means of streamlined electricity usage and a move to renewable energy sources with environ-
mentally acceptable technology will this target be achieved. In 2021, approx. 17 % of the country’s elec-
tricity production was from wind power, corresponding to 27.4 TWh(Holmström, 2022).
The demand for electricity is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. In the Swedish En-
ergy Agency’s long-term scenarios for the energy system, total production from wind power is estimated
to be between 64–156 TWh by 2050 of which offshore wind power will provide 34 TWh
(Energimyndigheten, 2021b).
According to the Nationella strategin för en hållbar vindkraftsutbyggnad report, the expansion require-
ment for wind power is estimated to be at least 100 TWh by 2040 of which offshore wind power is
estimated at 20 TWh(Energimyndigheten, 2021a).
In the recently presented national maritime plan, an area corresponding to an expansion of approx. 20–
30 TWh has been put forward. At the same time, the Swedish Energy Agency together with other af-
fected agencies was tasked with highlighting further suitable areas to enable a further 90 TWh offshore
electricity production. This will be reported on by March 2023 and the then the proposal will, if possible,
be worked into the maritime plan and the Maritime and Water Agency will report their recommenda-
tions to the government by December 2024 (Energimyndigheten, 2022).
There are currently three offshore wind farms in the Swedish maritime area: Lillgrund, Bockstigen and
Kårehamn. Three further wind farms have permission, Storgrundet, Kriegers Flak and Kattegatt Off-
shore, but none of these permits have yet been used.
1.1.1 Electricity demand
Sweden has four electricity regions. The different electricity regions have different demands and pro-
duction which has led to the areas SE1 and SE2 producing more electricity than is used. Areas SE3 and
SE4, on the other hand, have an electricity deficit. This means that large quantities of electricity are
transported from north to south Sweden. Transporting electricity requires electricity cables and some-
times there is insufficient capacity in the main network to transfer sufficient electricity to the areas with
1
Government statement by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, 18/10/2022.
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a deficit. This can mean that electricity consumers in southern Sweden sometimes pay a higher price
than they should compared to those living in northern Sweden(Vattenfall, 2021). The project area for
Skidbladner is sited outside of SE3 and therefore presents an opportunity to contribute to satisfy the
ever-increasing demand for renewable energy in a region which already produces insufficient electricity
to meet demand.
1.2 Climate benefits
70% of the world’s surface is ocean which means that the ocean is important for regulating the climate.
Since 1970, more than 90% of warming has been absorbed by the oceans and since 1990, the rate of
warming has doubled. Of the carbon dioxide released since the start of the industrial revolution in the
1800s, the oceans have absorbed around 40% (Naturskyddsföreningen, 2021). To counteract the cli-
mate change which is the consequence of the world’s oceans warming up, it is necessary to strengthen
access to renewable energy and thus reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
One of the Global Goals, Goal 7: Sustainable energy for all, means that everyone should have access to
sustainable, reliable and renewable energy and clean fuel. This is in order to meet other global
challenges such as poverty, climate change and inclusive growth. Global demand for energy is
simultaneously expected to increase by 37% by 2040. Renewable energy solutions such as wind power
are becoming cheaper, more reliable and more efficient by the day. By investing in renewable energy,
energy services and electricity can be secured for all without damaging the planet. Target 7.2 Increase
global percentage of renewable energy also involves the proportion of renewable energy increasing
significantly by 2030 (Globala målen, 2021a).
Expansion of offshore wind farms involves a large area of ocean which presents questions about the
impact on the marine environment. It is important to both conserve biodiversity locally while
simultaneously contributing to mitigating climate change. These two interests are connected as the
ocean’s species and ecosystem are heavily influenced by climate change. Offshore wind power
contributes to a reduction in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases with the potential to also
increase biodiversity through artificial reefs around the foundations (Bergström, o.a., 2022).
Offshore wind power can be linked to Global Goal 14, Life below water, which aims to conserve and use
marine resources sustainably for sustainable development. A major problem facing oceans today is
acidification. This occurs as a result of increased levels of carbon dioxide in the air mentioned earlier. By
implementing more wind power, carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced which then reduces
acidification, as linked to Target 14.3: Minimise ocean acidification (Globala målen, 2021b).
To achieve the goal of 100% renewable electricity production by 2040 and no emissions of greenhouse
gases by 2045, wind power must continue to be expanded and developed. Electricity production from
wind power must increase from the current 27 TWh to at least 100 TWh according to the Energy
Agency’s assessment. Since wind farms are becoming ever more important in the work to achieve
Sweden’s target and the global goals, new wind turbines must be built where there are good wind
conditions. There are several advantages to siting wind farms offshore. The best wind conditions are
offshore where there are large areas and winds are often stronger and more even than on land.
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Skidbladner consultation document
1.3 Administrative information
1.3.1 Operations
Simply Blue Group intends to apply for permission for an offshore wind farm within Sweden’s Economic
Zone. The park encompasses an area of approx. 1,423km2 with up to 111 wind turbines at a maximum
height of 360 m, wind measurement masts and substations (OSS).
The wind farm will consist of wind turbines constructed on floating foundations which are anchored to
the seabed. Aside from turbines, offshore substations, wind measurement masts, internal network ca-
bling on the seabed and export cables to shore will be installed.
1.3.2 Operators
Simply Blue Group (SBG) is a leading developer of previous phases of sustainable and transformative
marine projects. Simply Blue Group works with the oceans, enabling communities to benefit from ‘blue
growth’ - floating offshore wind power, wave energy, sustainable fuel and sustainable aquaculture - all
in harmony with the ocean and the fight against climate change.
Simply Blue Group was founded in 2011 and has its headquarters in Cork Ireland, with offices in England,
Scotland, Spain, Sweden, USA and Canada with a rapidly expanding team of over 90 people worldwide.
Floating offshore wind power is the dominant market segment in Simply Blue Group’s portfolio. The
group has more than 10 GW floating wind projects in development and the company has grown to a
position as one of the world’s leading floating wind power companies as evidenced by our growing in-
ternational presence.
Simply Blue Group’s biofuel division produces green hydrogen, green ammonia, biofuel, sustainable avi-
ation fuel, methanol etc., from the renewable offshore energy. This biofuel can then be used as “drop
in” fuel for aviation, marine transport and chemical production where it is difficult to transition to re-
newables. At the same time, it enables existing oil and gas infrastructure to be reused to move from
fossil-based to sustainable fuel production and storage. This makes it possible to deal with the con-
straints of the grid infrastructure and variations in renewable energy production that might otherwise
affect the robustness and stability of the grid.
In addition, Simply Blue Group has a strategy for Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and aims to evaluate
methods for reducing emissions through Direct Air Capture (DAC). Captured CO2 can either be perma-
nently sequestered and stored or fed into the production of biofuels.
Operating DAC and biofuel plants during times of high wind and low demand creates economic effi-
ciency and sustainable energy production, which reduces the risk and dependency on subsidies and
enables projects to support a robust local supply chain.
Simply Blue Group has many years’ experience in aquaculture and an ambition to use marine space in
the wind farm for seagrass/weed aquaculture. Seaweed farming has the potential to consume CO2, ni-
trogen and phosphorous in the sea and produce oxygen. This creates effective artificial habitats which
have the potential to support fish populations by providing food and protection. Harvested seaweed
can be used for biofuel production, biodynamic fertilisers and, if water conditions are good, so-called
“superfoods”.
In order to minimise the environmental impact, utilise the marine area to improve sea water quality and
create a basis to transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources, all three business areas are assessed
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Skidbladner consultation document
in at the same time when Simply Blue Group develop their wind farms. This creates new economic op-
portunities for coastal communities and ensures projects co-exist with sustainable fishing, improve-
ments in marine environments and support for local industry through the transition.
1.3.3 Consultant
Wind Sweden is the small consulting firm with the big vision to make the future renewable. Our mission
is to offer market players proactive and strategic advice with qualified services in the development,
implementation, investment and operation of renewable energy in the Nordic region through broad
industry knowledge and specialist skills.
Wind Sweden AB is the lead consultant with responsibility for leading the project and drawing up the
consultation document. Wind Sweden has robust competence in offshore wind power and is responsi-
ble for the development of the Kattegatt Offshore wind farm by Falkenberg.
1.4 Scope of consultation and legislation
These consultation documents relate to an assessment of permission for the installation and operation
of the Skidbladner wind farm, including related activities such as substations and the internal cable net-
work. Several different types of permit are required, which are examined by various bodies at different
stages. The Table 1 following includes a summary of the main permits required for establishment, with
those intended to be applied for at a later stage and therefore not covered by this consultation specifi-
cally highlighted in yellow.
Table 1. Main permits for establishment and operation of Skidbladner. Permits highlighted in yellow are not included in these
consultation documents since they are intended to be applied for at a later date.
Activity Area Permit Agency When
Permit for the
establishment and
operation of a wind farm This consultation
Wind power
Economic zone in Sweden’s economic Government with additional
installation
zone (§5 SEZ). application
This consultation
Permit for laying
Internal cable with additional
Continental shelf undersea internal cables Government
network separate
§3 and § 2 b of the CSA.
application
Gotland
Economic zone and This consultation
Natura 2000 Authorisation under County
territorial waters, if with any additional
authorisation Chapter 7 § 28 a EC. Administrative
appropriate application
Board
Separate
Survey permit under § 3
Seabed surveys Continental shelf SGU application in
CSA.
several stages
Authorisation for laying Separate
Export cable Continental shelf Government
export cable under CSA. application
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Authorisation under
Land and
Chapter 11 EC for water-
Environmental Separate
Export cable Territorial waters related works and
Court of application
required measures
Appeal
onshore.
Authorisation for
Connection point to
connection to the main Energy market Separate
Grid connection be determined at a
grid under Electricity Act inspectorate application
later stage
(1997:857).
1.4.1 Authorisation and legislation
Permit for construction and operation of the wind farm
Construction and operation of the planned wind farm and associated facilities, including substations
and internal cable networks (ancillary activities require a permit from the government under § 5 of the
Act (1992:1140) on Sweden’s Exclusive Economic Zone (LSEZ).
In a permit assessment under LSEZ, certain rules in the Environmental Code (1998:808) (EC) apply, in-
cluding Chapters 2-4 and Chapter 5. §§ 3-5 and § 18 along with relevant regulations in Chapter 6 pursu-
ant to § 6 LSEZ. A specific environmental assessment will be conducted and an Environmental Impact
Assessment (EAI) will be produced pursuant to § 6 a LSEZ.
Permit for laying submarine internal cables.
The wind farm will be connected by cables which form the so-called internal cable network within the
farm area. Laying submarine cables for the internal cable network on the continental shelf requires a
permit under § 3 and § 2 b of the Act on the Continental Shelf (SFS 1966:314) (ACS) subject to govern-
mental review (Department of Enterprise). The company intends to apply for such a permit in connec-
tion with the permit application for the wind farm. In a permit assessment under CSA certain rules in
the Environmental Code (EC) apply, including Chapters 2 and Chapter 5. §§ 3-5 EC and the provisions of
Chapter 6 of the EC under § 3 CSA. A specific environmental assessment will be conducted and an Envi-
ronmental Impact Assessment (EAI) will be produced.
Survey permit
For preparatory geological and biological seabed surveys a survey permit is required under § 3 CSA.
Once permission is granted for the wind farm, furthermore detailed surveys may need to be conducted
in order to design the wind farm in detail. The provisions in the EC in section 1.4.1.3 are relevant for
authorisation for investigation. A specific environmental assessment will be conducted and an Environ-
mental Impact Assessment (EAI) will be produced. For investigations which include blasting or drilling,
Chapter 6 of the EC is not appropriate.
Natura 2000 authorisation
The wind farm is planned in an area adjacent to the Natura 2000 area Gotska Sandön-Salvorev. Any
Natura 2000 permit is applied for and examined by the County Administrative Board of Gotland accord-
ing to Chapter 7 § 32 of the EC. A specific environmental assessment will be conducted and an Environ-
mental Impact Assessment (EAI) will be produced.
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1.4.2 The permit process for the construction and operation of the Skidbladner wind
farm
The permit process for the Skidbladner wind farm begins with a consultation and investigation stage in
which the applicants consult with agencies, organisations, the general public and those with a special
interest under Chap. 6. of the EC. During this consultation period, the applicants receive input and in-
formation from all stakeholders. This input and the information received then informs which surveys
will be conducted, which material is presented and which aspects go into the EIA.
The consultation begins with Gotland County Administrative Board and Region. This is in a written
consultation with the proposed consultation group, see Annex 1.
Public consultation is proposed to take the form of a face-to-face meeting where attendees have the
opportunity to raise issues and comments. Following the consultation meeting, there will be a further
opportunity to submit comments to the operator within 3 weeks. The consultation will be announced
in the press, with information on where to find information about the project and how to submit com-
ments.
Following consultation with agencies, organisations, the general public and those with a special interest
an EIA will be produced.
The permit process is shown in the schematic below.
Figure 1. Schematic of the permit process. Förstudie – Feasibility studies; Samrådsunderlag – Scoping report; Avgränsnings-
samråd och miljöbedömning – Public consultation and impact assessment; MKB och ansökan tas fram –EIA report and permit
application development; Tillståndsansökan lämnas in – Submission of the permit application; Handläggning – Processing of
the permit; Eventuell komplettering – Any additional documentation; Prövning -Permit examination; Beslut om tillstånd och
villkor – Decision on permit and permit conditions; Genomförande av verksamhet och kontrollprogram – Project realisation
and monitoring program; Idrifttagande och kontrollprogram – Operation and monitoring program continuation.
1.4.3 Scoping consultation
This consultation document has been prepared as a basis for scoping consultations in accordance with
Chapter 6 §§ 29-32 of the EC. Survey consultation in accordance with Chapter 6 §§ 23-25 EC has not
been conducted as it is only relevant if significant environmental impacts cannot be predicted in
advance.
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A scoping consultation under the provisions in Chapter 6 § 30 of the EC and consultations will be con-
sulted with the County Council, supervisory authority and individuals likely to be particularly affected by
the operations. In addition, consultation will be conducted with other government agencies, municipal-
ities and the public who may be affected by the planned operations.
A scoping consultation aims to inform agencies, individuals and the public, about the planned project’s
location and give a comprehensive account of the potential environmental impact of the planned activ-
ities. Consultation documents will contain information on:
• Design and scope of operations
• Location of operations
• Environmental sensitivities in the affected area
• Aspects of the environment which can be assumed to be significantly affected
• The environmental affects likely to result from the operations or external events, to the extent
such information is available.
• The assessment conducted by the applicant as to whether or not the operations have a
significant impact on the environment.
The consultation document shall also provide examples of appropriate protection measures. The con-
sultation document shall include information on all aspects of the project, the construction phase, op-
erational phase and decommissioning phase. The purpose of a scoping consultation is also to provide
the applicant with guidance from the County Administrative Board which will work to ensure that the
content of the forthcoming EIA contains the scope and detail required for an assessment.
1.4.4 Scope of consultation
Substantive limitations
The present consultation document concerns the application for a permit for a wind power
development under the SEZ and internal cable network under CSA and, where applicable, the
assessment for a permit under Natura 2000 rules. Further permits are considered separately and are
not covered by this consultation document.
The power connection point to the overhead network has not yet been determined but will be surveyed
at a later stage and coordinated with Svenska kraftnät. For this reason, the consultation document does
not cover the laying of export cable in the Swedish economic zone and territorial waters according to
the CSA (1966:314) §§ 2b-3. The consultation document also does not cover permits under Chapter 11
of the EC for laying cables in territorial waters or other permits required under the EC or other relevant
legislation for onshore measures, for example. Permits required for these will be applied for at a later
stage.
Connection of the wind farm to the transmission grid and the construction of an electrical power line in
accordance with the Electricity Act (1997:857) is a separate authorisation process, known as a grid
concession for a line, and is not covered by this consultation.
Since the project may have an impact across borders, consultations will be held and information
provided in accordance with Chap. 6 of § 33 EC to satisfy the requirements of the provisions on
transboundary consultation in the EIA directive and on the Environmental Impact Assessment in a
transboundary context under the Espoo Convention. The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency is
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responsible for conducting the procedure with other countries under the EC and Espoo Convention, see
Chapter 6. 33 EC and § 21 Environmental Assessment Regulation (2017:966).
The consultation process is limited to that which includes the construction phase, operational phase
and decommissioning phase for the Skidbladner wind farm and related infrastructure. This includes the
wind turbines and their foundations, measuring masts, internal cable network and substations.
This consultation process also gives an overview of what the forthcoming EIA will contain along with
which environmental impact will be further investigated.
Geographical scope
The geographical scope for the consultation and environmental assessment is based on the area
covered by the project as well as the surrounding area which may be impacted by the operations in the
application, i.e., the survey area. The geographical scope for the survey area varies due to respective
factors.
Time limitations
Consultation for the Skidbladner wind farm will be conducted between autumn 2022 and spring 2023.
A comprehensive EIA with related surveys is expected to begin after the consultation.
Definition of the scope of consultation
Stakeholders identified for inclusion in the consultation are listed in Annex 1.
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2 LOCATION
According to the code of conduct in Chapter 2 of the Environmental Code, a site must be chosen for an
activity or measure that is suitable both in terms of its purpose and in terms of human health and the
environment. The location principle (Chapter 2 § 6 environmental code) is extremely important for new
installations. It is therefore particularly important to highlight how the location principle has been
observed in the environmental impact assessment in a permit evaluation. The location principle
(Chapter. 2 § 6 environmental code, involves activities or measures being placed in a location where the
end goal of the activity or measure can be achieved with minimum intrusion and nuisance to human
health and the environment. Intrusion and nuisance to human health in the location principle means
anything which contradicts the aim of the environmental code. Sometimes several locations may be
suitable for an activity. In such cases, the best of these locations is chosen (prop. 1997/98:45 part 1, p.
218 ff)., i.e., the location which causes least intrusion or nuisance to human health and the environment
(Naturvårdsverket, 2022a).
A recent report from Vindval aimed to investigate the possibility for large scale, sustainable expansion
of wind power in Swedish waters in the Baltic Sea while also acting as a guidance document (Isæus,
Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022). The report is based on both industry
preferences, i.e., wind power producers, and the assessed impact on species at the population level.
The outcome of the report shows that offshore wind power with floating foundations is broadly possible
in all parts of the Baltic Sea. In general, floating foundations are expected to have lower impact on
marine organisms than fixed foundations since they located in deeper areas with lower biodiversity.
Areas with deep, dead seabeds where the impact is expected to be particularly low, are particularly
suitable for wind power developments.
The choice of project area for the Skidbladner wind farm has been based on a location study.
Chapter2.1.1explains how the location of the operation has been chosen and why.
2.1 Location survey
The forthcoming EIA includes a description of the location study and the choice of the design of the
farm. It will also include an explanation of alternative.
Along with this consultation document, a location study has been conducted with help of the QGIS
programme, in which information on conflicting interests and other available information has been
studied.
The area which has been analysed is the Swedish waters in the Baltic Sea between Stockholm and
Malmö. The aim of the analysis was to identify areas suitable for development of an offshore wind farm
with regards conflicting interests, environmental impact, distance to shore, wind resource, power
requirements and technical conditions.
The first step in the location survey was to exclude conflicting interests which could been heavily
impacted by an offshore wind farm development and therefore would be avoided if at all possible. In
the second step, an area 7 km from the coastline was removed from the available area to maintain
distance from the mainland and reduce visual impact. In the third step, areas were identified which
were suitable for an offshore wind farm development with sufficient water depth for floating
foundations. In the final step, areas were chosen which had sufficient production capacity.
A summary of the different steps can be seen below in Table 2.
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Table 2. Summary of location surveys.
Step Parameters
National park
Nature reserve
Natura 2000 area
1
Armed forces
Waterways
National commercial fishing interest
2 Distance from shore
3 Identify areas suitable for floating foundations based on ocean depth
4 Identify areas with sufficiently large production capacity
In order to then choose the final project area, further parameters were investigated to choose the most
suitable area. A summary can be seen below in Table 3.
Table 3. Overview of further parameters which influence the choice of location.
Parameter Explanation
Electricity demand SE3 and SE4 - electricity is needed in these electricity areas
National interest Areas of national interest have been avoided
National maritime plan Recommendations for use of land areas follow
Good wind conditions At least 8m/s average wind speed
Porpoises Adaptations have been made in areas frequented by porpoises
Aviation Areas of conflict have been avoided
Mine risk areas Have been avoided
Ice Areas with high risk of ice have been avoided
2.1.1 Choice of location
The project area for Skidbladner lies within Sweden’s Economic Zone, south east of Gotland covering an
area of 1,423 km2, see Figure 2.
The fact that the planned operations is location close to the electricity areas SE3 is considered as a
positive aspect since areas SE3 and SE4 have an energy deficit.
The area is judged to have favourable conditions for an offshore wind farm with winds between 9.6m/s
and 9.7m/s at 150m above sea level. Ocean depth varies between approx. 14 m and 197 m and the
material on the seabed is predominantly hard mud and clay.
The Salvorev-Kopparstenarna nature reserve and the Gotska Sandön lie south east of the project area
No national interests are found in the project area and the planned operations have few conflicting
interests.
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Figure 2. Overview of location and corner coordinates for the project area. Projetkområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens
yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Hörnkoordinater – Corner
coordinates.
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Figure 3. The area marked will not have wind turbines or substations installed. Projetkområde – Project area; Sjöterritoriets
gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Område där etablering av vindkraftverk eller transformationstationer inte kommer ske –
Area where no windfarms nor transformation stations are planned to be established.
The south west tip of the project area not have wind turbines or substations installed. This is because
the area borders an area of high natural value and has a depth which is in part shallower than 30 m, see
Figure 3.
The selection of project area for Skidbladner coincides to around 99% with an area without restrictions
or existing area protection (national parks, Natura 2000 areas and nature reserves) according to
Vindval’s report Ekologisk hållbar vindkraft i Östersjön (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman, &
Andresson-Li, 2022), see Figure 4.
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Figure 4. Restricted areas and areas with existing environmental protection (national parks, Natura 2000 areas and nature
reserves) (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska
zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Befintligt om-
rådesskydd – Existing protection area; Begränsning under peak torsklek – Restricted areas during cod spawning; Begränsning
max utbyggnad 20% - Restricted areas where only 20% of are can be exploited ; Olämpligt område – Invalid area for develop-
ment; Öleämpligt område sommar – Invalid area for development in summer; Hänsynzon – Area of consideration.
2.2 Zero option
The zero option describes a situation where no wind farm is installed within the planned area. A detailed
presentation of the zero option will be included in the forthcoming EIA. This will include the assessed
environmental impact as a result of the alternative in the application in relation to the zero option.
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3 DESCRIPTION OF OPERATIONS
Offshore wind power is considered to have great potential in respect to electricity production in both
Swedish waters and globally. This is because winds at sea are both strong and even. Data from existing
wind farms in the North Sea show that 91% of the time it is sufficiently windy to produce renewable
energy (Ørsted, u.d.). The development of Skidbladner wind farm will contribute approximately 11.7
TWh/year of renewable energy.
Figure 5. Average values of how often an offshore farm can produce renewable energy. Data based on North Sea wind farms
(Ørsted, u.d.).
Construction for the Skidbladner wind farm will begin following receipt of permits, it is currently difficult
to determine which model or height of wind turbines will be optimal at the time of development. This
is predominantly due to the constant rapid technological development of wind turbines. Hence the
consultation document includes a maximum total height and maximum number of wind turbines for
the project area. This also applies to the choice of floating foundation and anchoring methods and
therefore several alternative methods are presented in the consultation document. This favours the
application of the principle of best available techniques, which means that the forthcoming EIA intends
to describe potential environmental impacts, allowing for flexibility in the choice of techniques.
The company intends to apply for authorisation for construction and operation of a wind farm with free
placement of wind turbines within a geographically defined area, as per the usual procedure for offshore
wind power. The positions of the wind turbines will be determined before construction with regard to
the best technology available at the time.
Based on the project area, an example design has been developed by the company with the maximum
number of wind turbines allowed. In the three different example wind farm designs and calculations, an
example turbine is used, the dimensions of which can be seen in Table 4, Chapter 3.2.1. The example
design i shown in the consultation stage is only to be seen as an idea of how the planned wind farm may
look. The final design of the wind farm in terms of wind turbines, positions, rotor size and total height
will be determined at a later stage.
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3.1 Scope
Skidbladner wind farm is planned to be designed with up to 111 wind turbines which currently gives a
total installed capacity of approx. 2.2 GW with an expected annual production of approx. 11.7 TWh.
The wind farm consists of wind turbines with foundations and an internal cable network which connects
all of the turbines and their substations (OSS). The wind turbines will be anchored with floating founda-
tions meaning that the wind turbines float and are moored to the seabed.
3.1.1 Accompanying activities
An export cable (marine cable) is a requirement for the wind turbines to be connected to the grid
infrastructure. This involves an export cable being constructed from the wind farm's OSSs, either to land
or to one of the offshore connection points proposed by Svenska kraftnät on the border between the
territorial waters’ boundary and the SEZ. Should the applicant intend to lay a marine cable towards land,
this will be constructed all the way to the beach. At the shoreline, the marine cable will be coupled with
a land cable which will continue further to a suitable connection point to the Swedish transmission grid.
3.2 Design
3.2.1 Wind turbine
As the permit process for offshore wind assessment takes time, the time from project launch to
construction phase can sometimes be as long as 8-10 years. Technological development within wind
power, on the other hand, is rapid, meaning it is impossible to know which technology will be the best
available on the day the project is realised.
Currently available technology will be further developed both with regards efficiency and height of wind
turbines. The current trend is for higher and more efficient turbines and today there are wind turbines
with outputs of 15 MW (Vestas, u.d.). If this trend continues at the same pace, we will see turbines with
outputs around 20MW within the next decade.
The total height of a wind turbine is determined by the rotor diameter as well as clearance between the
water surface and the tip of the rotor blade. Clearance will be between 21 - 35 m for this project. The
installed output for wind turbines for the project is expected to be approx. 20 MW. The maximum total
height applied for is thus 360 m, see Table 5. An exact number, dimensions and model will be
determined in the final contract and detailed projections of the site. Therefore, exact figures cannot be
provided at this stage.
Table 4 below lists three alternative designs, which can be seen in Figure 7, and Figure 8a scenario with
the maximum dimensions, see Table 5.
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Figure 6. Schematic of example. Frigång – Clearance; Totalhöjd – Total height.
Figure 7. Example designs A and B in the southern part of the project area based on the dimensions in Table 4. For design B, the
pink dots are added to design A. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone
(EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
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Figure 8. Example design C in the southern part of the project area based on the dimensions in Table 4. Projektområde – Project
area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
Table 4. Alternative example designs of the wind farm. RD=Rotor diameter.
Example design A B C
Number of wind turbines 82 111 111
Output per wind turbine [MW] 20 20 20
Total installed output [MW] 1640 2220 2220
Clearance [m] 35 35 35
Rotor diameter [m] 290 290 290
Total height [m] 325 325 325
Approximate distance between turbines [RD]
6 / 13 6 / 13 6 / 13
Within rows / Between rows
Calculated production capacity [TWh/yr] 8.6 11.7 11.7
Table 5. Maximum dimensions applied for:
Scope of application Number of wind turbines Total height [m]
Maximum 111 360
For this evaluation and the forthcoming EIA, the maximum number of turbines and total height are as
the given dimensions. Further design alternatives within the framework of the maximum number of
wind turbines and maximum total height applied for will be surveyed. This alternative will cover the
wind turbines placed in the far north eastern part of the project area, see Figure 8and Figure 7.
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The final design will be based on the forthcoming seabed surveys and information received during
consultations and will be determined once permission is obtained.
3.2.2 Floating foundations
With regards the depth within the Skidbladner project area, the installation is intended to use floating
foundations. Floating foundations use buoyancy to support the wind turbines and are anchored to the
seabed. The choice of which type of floating foundation to use depends on several parameters, including
the nature of the seabed, wind conditions and the size of turbines. The design will be analysed at a later
step to optimise electricity production and economy as well as minimising the negative impact on the
environment.
The main types of floating foundation currently on the market can be categorised into three groups
depending on the type of mechanism used for stability. These three are as follows:
Stabilised with ballast
Ballast at the bottom of the floating construction moves the centre of gravity to below the centre of
buoyancy. This means the construction stays upright and counters movements which unbalance the
construction. An example of floating foundations with this technology is SPAR.
Stabilised with buoyancy
In this case, the water surface is the main element for maintaining the construction’s stability. Stability
is achieved by either having one large pontoon or several smaller pontoons a distance from the centre
of the construction. An example of floating foundations with this construction are barge and semi-
submersible. The main difference between these two types is that semi-submersible has distributed
buoyancy and consists of pontoons connected by arms while barge consists of one flat floating element
with no space between.
Stabilised through anchoring to the seabed
This technology relies on lines which are anchored to the seabed under tension and that they can thus
stabilise the construction. The volume of water displaced by the construction of the wind turbine must
be large enough to create extra buoyancy so that the anchoring lines are always under tension. An
example of floating foundation which uses this type of mechanism is Tension Leg Platform
(TLP)(Leimeister, Kolios, & Collu, 2018).
A summary of the advantages and disadvantages for three of the floating foundations named above can
be seen below in Table 6.
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Table 6. Summary of the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of floating foundation (IRENA, 2016) & (Du,
2021).
Types of floating founda-
Advantages Disadvantages
tion
- Simple design compared to semi-sub-
mersible and TLP - Requires greater depth (>100m)
- Lower installation and anchoring - Wind turbines cannot be installed
SPAR
costs than TLP in port but rather are installed in
- More stable than semi-submersible situ
due to depth of design
- Easier to construct and transport
than SPAR and TLP
- Wind turbines can be installed in port
- Least stable of the three different
and then the whole construction can
structures
Semi-submersible be transported to be positioned
- Complex and larger construction
- Can be used for a broad spectrum of
compared to the other alternatives
water depths, usually from 40m
- Lower installation and anchoring
costs compared to TLP
- Difficult to maintain stability dur-
- The most stable construction of these ing transport and installation
three types - Depending on the design may
- Smaller structure at lower material need a specially designed vessel for
costs installation
Tension leg platform (TLP) - Wind turbines can be installed in port - Higher installation and anchoring
and then the whole construction can costs compared to SPAR and semi-
be transported to be positioned submersible
- Can be used for a broad spectrum of - Can be affected by high frequency
water depths, usually from 40m dynamic loads due to the construc-
tion’s rigidity.
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Figure 9. Illustration of the current main models of floating foundations.
3.2.3 Anchoring methods
All of the types of foundation described in Chapter 3.2.2 require anchoring to the seabed. Which type
of anchoring method is appropriate depends on the nature of the seabed and sediment in the area and
therefore the choice will be based on the seabed survey which will be conducted at a later stage.
Tension of the lines between the foundation and anchoring also depends on the type of foundation and
anchoring method. Which tension is used affects how much the foundation can move on the surface.
The final anchoring method will be determined at a later stage.
A summary of some of the most common current anchoring methods is described below in Table 7.
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Table 7. Summary of anchoring methods(Castillo, 2020) & (Vryh of Anchors BV, 2010).
Anchoring method Information Advantages Disadvantages
- Made of steel or
concrete
- Holding force created - Can be installed in a wide
from the weight of the range of types of seabed - Material intensive
mooring and friction production
Gravity anchor - Can manage both
against the seabed - Difficult to remove after
(Gravity anchor) vertical and horizontal
material decommissioning of a
loads
- Manages vertical loads wind farm
- Low cost
through its weight and
horizontal loads with
friction on the seabed
- Cylinders - Generates a lot of
- Can be installed in a wide
underwater noise during
- Holding force is created range of types of seabed
Piles installations
through friction between - Can manage both
(Piles) the cylinders and ground - Difficult to remove after
vertical and horizontal
decommissioning of a
- Piles are buried loads
wind farm
- Can manage both
vertical and horizontal
loads
- Another type of
mooring with piles - Low installation costs
- Larger diameter - Easy to remove and can - Can be used on a limited
Suction pile compared to piles be reused range of seabeds Used on
clay soils
(suction pile) - The piles are hollow - Low noise during
and a pump creates a installation compared to
vacuum to anchor the piles
pile during installation
- Can be removed after
decommissioning of a
wind farm
- Can resist high levels of - Can only handle
horizontal movement horizontal loads. There
Drag embedment - Made of steel with a are certain types which
anchor - High loading capacity in can resist vertical
triangular construction
relation to its weight movements.
(drag embedment at the base which forms
anchor) capacity for anchoring - Can be removed after - Can be used on a limited
decommissioning of a range of seabeds Best
wind farm suited to sandy soils
3.3 Mains grid
The electricity transmission for a wind farm can be divided into several parts. The internal cable network,
substations (OSS) and export cable. Electricity is transmitted from each wind turbine to a substation via
the internal cable system. The substation transforms the electricity to a higher voltage before it is trans-
mitted further via the export cable. In some cases several substations and export cables are required.
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Figure 10. Schematic of the different parts of an offshore wind farm. Nätanslutning på land – Gridconecction on land; Export-
kabel - Exportcable; OOS – Offshore Sub Station; Flytande vindkraftverk – Floating wind turbines; Internkabel – Internal cable
network.
3.3.1 Internal cable network
Within the wind farm area, a number of cables will be laid to connect the wind turbines to each other,
the so-called internal cable network. This network is important for communication between wind
turbines and transmission of the electricity produced. It is also importance for operational monitoring
and load control.
The internal cables have a dynamic part which moves with the floating foundation and therefore needs
a high level of flexibility and strength to be able to handle the impact of waves and currents, for example.
Usually, the cable is constructed used the “lazy wave” method where buoyancy modules are added to
reduce the load on the cable, see Figure 11. Either only dynamic cables or a combination of dynamic
and static cables can be used but this requires the addition of a connection point between the two types
(Lerch, De-Prada-Gil, & Climent, 2021).
The internal cable network is then connected to one or more offshore substations (OSS). These stations
transform the electricity produced by the wind turbines to a high voltage to reduce loss of electricity
during transmission via export cables.
The preferred method of protection for the internal cable network will be by burying them. In those
places where this method is unsuitable due to, for example, cables crossing each other or unsuitable
seabed material, a different method will be used. Alternative methods for protecting cables is to cover
them with stones, concrete mattresses, concrete, artificial seaweed mats2or sand bags.
2
Anti-Scour Frond Mattress:
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Figure 11. Schematic of the internal cable network. Dynamisk kabel – Dynamic cable; Flytkraftsmodul - buoyancy module;
Statisk kabel – Static cable.
3.3.2 Substation
A substation tower with transformer room is built on the foundation for the substation. Within the
transformer room the voltage from the wind farm is increased before it is transmitted via the export
cable. This reduces power loss to the transmission grid. The number of OSS and their placement de-
pends on the final placement of the export cable. The export cable’s exact route has not yet been de-
termined.
Depending on the actual depth of the location of the substation, it may be appropriate to anchor with
either so-called jacket-foundations, see Figure 12, or floating foundations with anchoring, see Chapter
3.2. However, other types of foundation may also be appropriate.
Jacket foundations consist of a stable truss structure of steel tubes/beams anchored to the base. This
construction is suitable for deeper waters and high loads.
Jacket foundations are secured to the base with either so-called suction buckets or smaller steel pipes
which are bored or piled into the seabed. Suction buckets are steel or concrete cylinders which use a
vacuum to suction to the seabed. Some preparation of the seabed may be needed for the installation
of substations. Large rocks may need to be moved and depending on the choice of anchoring methods,
the seabed may need levelling. The final choice of technology will depend on the seabed situation on
site. Erosion protection is usually laid around the foundation consisting of a lower layer of gravel and
upper layer of stones of various sizes.
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Figure 12. Schematic of a jacket foundation.
3.3.3 Export cables
The electricity produced by a wind farm is transmitted via OSSs to the transmission grid or regional grid.
An export cable (marine cable) will be laid either to land on Gotland or to the Swedish mainland, or to
one of the offshore connection points proposed by Svenska kraftnät at the boundary or territorial
waters and the SEZ.
Should the applicant intend to lay a marine cable towards land, this will be constructed all the way to
the beach from the SEZ via territorial waters. At the shoreline, the marine cable will be coupled with a
land cable which will continue further to a suitable connection point to the Swedish transmission grid
or regional network on land.
As with the internal cable network, the export cable must be protected from damage either by burying
in trenches or covering with blocks, depending on the seabed conditions.
The exact route and size of the cable will be determined later in the design process, where conflicting
interests and technical conditions will be taken into account.
3.3.4 Site for connection to national grid.
On 1st January 2022, the government asked Svenska kraftnät to evaluate how Svenska kraftnät could
extend the transmission network to areas within Sweden marine territory where there is potential to
connect several power generation plants. Report published 15th June 2022. Grid development will
support Sweden to achieve its renewable energy production targets. The government considers that
offshore electricity production has the potential to contribute to achieving the target for renewable
electricity production by 2040, partly by meeting increased demand for electricity in the future. The
government further considers that it is important that the development of offshore wind power occurs
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in such a way as to ensure the greatest possible benefit as cost effectively as possible and that offshore
wind is able to contribute large volumes of electricity and high efficiency.
Svenska kraftnät has proposed that the expansion of the grid within Sweden’s sea territory be organised
in calls for tenders for offshore connection points on the border between territorial waters and the SEZ.
The first round includes a total of six prioritised areas of water for expanding the network: Skåne’s south
coast, Halland coast, the southeast Baltic Sea, the north Western Sea, the south Bothnian Sea and the
Gulf of Bothnia(SvK, 2022).
In terms of Skidbladner, the onshore connection point for the southeast Baltic Sea is probably not the
most cost-effective solution and the project will therefore confirm the connection point later in the
development phase when Svenska Kraftnät announces new proposed connection points in 2025.
3.4 Facility
The wind farm facility consists of different phases, the first of which is to prepare the site. This includes
preparation of the seabed, pre-installation of electricity cables and anchoring systems.
Since the farm will be installed with floating foundations, the installation process will be somewhat
different from solid foundations. The majority of the floating foundations on the market currently can
be constructed in harbour and then towed out to site to be moored to the pre-installed anchors and
cables. However, the development of offshore construction vessels is progressing, which may change
how the process looks in the future.
3.5 Operation
Operation of the wind farm and monitoring of OSSs takes place remotely via an operation centre.
Regular maintenance and repairs will need to be carried out during operational times and will involve
transporting materials and staff on a service vessel or helicopter. The operation and service centre will
be sited onshore near to the wind farm. Floating foundations have the advantage that they can be towed
to harbour for repair and maintenance.
3.6 Decommissioning
The lifetime of wind farms is currently expected to be between 30 - 35 years after commissioning.
Following that, the farm will be decommissioned and dismantled in the reverse order to installation.
That means that the wind farm will be decoupled from cables and moorings and then towed to harbour
for dismantling. In the event that removal of parts of the wind farm and cables creates a greater
environmental impact than leaving them in situ, then leaving them in situ will be preferred. The
dismantling and recovery plan will be developed in consultation with the supervisory authority.
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4 AREA DESCRIPTION
The following chapter describes the area intended for the planned Skidbladner wind farm.
4.1 Wind resources
Wind conditions for the project area have been initially evaluated using available wind data from Global
Wind Atlas(Global Wind Atlas, u.d.) and a wind rose produced with available wind data (ERA5). At 150
meters above sea level, average wind speeds are between 9.6m/s and 9.7m/s in the project area (Global
Wind Atlas, u.d.). Prevailing winds are south westerly, see Figure 13.
Before the final design of the wind power development is determined, wind measurements will be taken
in the area which will form the basis of the final design of the wind farm.
Figure 13. Overview of the wind resources for the project area at 150m above sea level and the prevailing wind direction at
100 metres above sea level (Global Wind Atlas.). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclu-
sive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
4.2 Planning conditions
This chapter describes the planning conditions which influence the project area.
4.2.1 National maritime plan
Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management have produced three different marine plans, one
for the Gulf of Bothnian, one for the Baltic Sea and one for the Western Sea, which contribute to a long-
term sustainable development. The marine plan is not binding but is intended to be guidance around
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how the ocean can be used in the best way and act as a guide for national authorities, municipalities
and courts in the coming decisions, planning and authorisation process. This will also contribute to cre-
ating the conditions for Sweden’s future need to generate renewable energy including the expansion of
wind power.
In the plans, relatively few areas for energy generation from wind power have been identified which are
not considered sufficient to achieve the national target. However, the permit application to develop
wind power was made in areas which were not identified specifically for that purpose.
The Swedish Energy Agency considers that at least 100 TWh renewable electricity production must be
installed in Sweden by 2040-2045 in order to be able to achieve the goal of 100% renewable electricity
production. The Agency expects the offshore plan to allow for about 50 TWh of offshore wind power.
The areas identified for energy generation in the marine plan, however, only enable a total of between
23 TWh and 31 TWh of annual electricity production possible, depending on what proportion of the
areas can be used, considering other interests. Therefore, the Swedish Energy Agency together with
other affected agencies was tasked with highlighting further suitable areas to enable a further 90 TWh
offshore electricity production. This will be reported on by March 2023 and the then the proposal will,
if possible, be worked into the maritime plan and the Maritime and Water Agency will report their
recommendations to the government by December 2024 (Energimyndigheten, 2022).
According to the zoning of the marine plan, the planed wind power development, Skidbladner, is located
within the Baltic Sea area. Within this area there are good technical conditions for offshore energy
generation. However, high natural values have been identified in the marine plan are which may affect
future wind power installations. Establishing wind power in this area will be subject to Natura 2000
requirements. Within the marine plan area, there are also extensive defensive interests which mean
that wind power is not suitable in several areas according to the Maritime and Water Agency’s
evaluation. In the overall assessment for wind power in the Baltic Sea marine plan, these parameters
have been taken into account as well as negative effects on long-tailed duck populations.
The project area for Skidbladner is located in both the area of the North Baltic Sea and South Kvarken
as well as the Central Baltic Sea, see Figure 14. In the North Baltic Sea and South Kvarken the demand
for electricity is considered to be high largely due to the Mälardalen region and there are two areas
identified of significant importance for exergy extraction in the public interest. One is off of Svenska
Björn and the other, for floating wind power, northeast of Kopparstenarna, which also partly lies in the
Skidbladner project area, see Figure 15. Currently, these areas are not considered to be compatible with
the national interest for defence and the areas are therefore not identified in the maritime plan. In the
Central Baltic Sea, there are no areas identified for energy extraction and those identified in the east
Gotland archipelago are not compatible with the national interest for defence (Havs- och
vattenmyndigheten, 2022a).
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Figure 14. The national maritime plan showing the areas impacting the Skidbladner project area (Maritime and Water
Agency, 2022e). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterri-
toriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Havsplanen – Maritime plan; Havsområde – Sea area; ID-nummer – ID number;
Anvädningar – Uses; Försvar – National Defence; Generel användning – General uses; Natur – Nature; Särskild hänsyn till
höga naturvärden – Significant importance for nature.
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Figure 15. Area identified for wind farm (floating foundations) in the planning process for the national maritime plan (Mari-
time and Water Agency, 2022d). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic
zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Havsplanen – Maritime plan; Havsområde – Sea area; ID-
nummer – ID number; Områden identifierade för vindbruk I planeringsprocessen – Areas identified of significant importance
for exergy extraction in the public interest; Anvädningar – Uses; Försvar – National Defence; Generel användning – General
uses; Natur – Nature; Särskild hänsyn till höga naturvärden – Significant importance for nature.
A run-through of the various areas follows in order to clarify which interests are considered important
in the area of the marine plan where the project area is located.
Area G Ö204
Within area Ö204 there are two areas identified of significant importance for energy extraction in the
public interest as named previously. In the western part there are also areas of cultural and historical
value identified by the National Heritage Board that extend into the maritime plan area which require
special consideration of their high cultural value. In the northern part of Ö204 a marine national park is
planned in the Nämndö archipelago. There are several areas for shipping within the area that are part
of the wider Baltic Sea traffic system, see Figure 23. In summary, area Ö204is identified for general use
and shipping with special consideration to high cultural heritage value(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten,
2022a).
Area G Ö232
Area Ö232 is one of several areas that provide shipping in several shipping lanes in the Central Baltic
Sea . A shipping lane from the Bay of Riga connecting to the deep shipping lane east of Gotland lies
within Ö232 and has been identified as of significant importance to the public interest, see shipping
lanes in Figure 23. In summary, in addition to the above, Ö232 is designated for general use, shipping,
shipping survey area and commercial fishing. For area Ö232, no special consideration or priority or spe-
cial adaptation for coexistence is indicated(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2022a).
Area G Ö226
The tip of the eastern part of the Skidbladner project area lies within area Ö226 which is identified for
general use, recreation, shipping, shipping survey area and commercial fishing. Should energy extraction
and defence be in conflict, defence is judged to take precedence (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2022a).
Area N Ö231
The part of area Ö231which passes the territorial border in the northern part is included in the Skid-
bladner project area. Area Ö231 is covered by several different natural protections such as Natura 2000
and marine protected areas (MPA) (HELCOM). However, neither Natura 2000 or the MPA go over the
territorial border into the project area, only the national interest for natural value does that according
to Chapter 3 Environmental Code. In addition to the identified use of nature in the area, it is also iden-
tified as a survey area for shipping and commercial fishing. No preference or special adaptation for co-
existence is identified for the area (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2022a).
4.2.2 HELCOM, Baltic Sea Action Plan
To protect the Baltic Sea’s marine environment, the countries with a Baltic coastline have a shared
agreement. Work to improve the Baltic Sea’s condition is organised by HELCOM, which consists of rep-
resentatives from the different countries which are signatories to the Helsinki Convention. This conven-
tion is a regional environmental convention which addresses issues such as eutrophication, the spread
of environmentally hazardous substances and the protection and conservation of marine biodiver-
sity(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, u.d.).
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HELCOM’s work is directed by the Baltic Sea Action Plan (BSAP) which is a programme put forward by
representatives within the convention, to restore the good ecological status of the Baltic Sea’s marine
environment(WISE Marine, u.d.).
In the latest BSAP from 2021, it was raised that HELCOM sees the need to develop offshore wind to be
able to achieve the climate goals for 2030 and 2050. They also establish that steps should be taken to
expand sustainable with respect for their commitments to biodiversity and a healthy marine
environment (HELCOM, 2021).
4.2.3 Marine environmental management and environmental quality standards
The Marine Environment Directive was adopted by the EU in 2008 and into Swedish law in 2010 via the
Marine Environment Regulation, which follows the content of the EU Directive. The Marine
Environment Directive aims to achieve or maintain a good environmental status in Europe’s waters and
the directive was introduced into Swedish law through Chapter 5 of the Environmental Code and in the
Marine Environment Regulation (2010:1341) and the Marine and Water Agency’s regulations HVMFS
2012:18. The Marine Environment Regulation states that marine environmental management shall
ensure that good environmental status is maintained or achieved in the North Sea and Baltic Sea. The
management includes developing environmental quality standards (EQS) with various indicators to
assess whether good environmental status is being maintained or achieved, developing and
implementing a programme to monitor compliance with the EQS and describing the measures to be
taken to maintain or achieve a good environmental status. 11 Swedish EQS have been determined as a
tool to achieve good environmental status.
EQS are provisions for the quality of water, land, air or environment in general which are regulated by
the environmental code. The standards should protect human health and the environment. There are
currently EQS for noise, air and water. The standards can be designed in different ways. Some provide
clear limits while others represent target standards to work towards.
EQS for water includes lakes, rivers, coastal waters and ground water. An environmental quality
standard for water describes the quality a body of water should have achieved by a certain point in time.
The main rule is that all bodies of water should achieved that which the water agency calls good status
(Vattenmyndigheterna, 2022).
All sea water from the coast to the outer limit of Sweden’s economic zone fall under the EQS for sea
quality. The current project area for the Skidbladner wind farm lies in the Baltic Sea proper, in the basin
of the north Gotland Sea outer waters(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2019a). The current project area
lies outside of territorial waters, directly adjacent to the border which means that the project may have
some impact on the EQS for territorial waters. This will be further investigated in forthcoming EQS
following surveys and modelling.
Good environmental status
Good environmental status is the desired condition in the environment and serves as an overarching
environmental quality standard for the Baltic Sea. The parameters involved in maintaining or achieving
good environmental status in the sea are physical and chemical conditions, habitats and biological
conditions. Pressures can include physical disturbance, introduction of nutrients and organic matter,
introduction of hazardous substances and biological disturbance.
The description of good environmental status is divided into 11 themed area, descriptors, see Table 8,
and are found in Annex 2 of the Marine and Water Agency’s regulations (HVMFS) 2012:18 (Havs- och
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vattenmyndigheten, 2012). Each descriptor is then divided into one or more criteria based on the
description of what conditions constitute good environmental status within that descriptor. In turn,
each criterion has indicators which are the parameters for measurement/investigation by the
environmental monitoring in order to determine whether the conditions in the criterion are met (Havs-
och vattenmyndigheten, 2022b).
Table 8. Good environmental status 11 themes (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2022b).
Themes
1. Biodiversity
2. Non-native species
3. Commercially beneficial fish and shellfish
4. Marine food webs
5. Eutrophication
6. Integrity of the seabed
7. Existing changes in hydrographic conditions
8. Concentrations and effects of hazardous substances
9. Hazardous substances in fish and other marine life
10. Marine debris
11. Underwater noise
The themes which are considered to potentially impact the planned wind farm are:
- Biodiversity
- Integrity of the seabed
- Underwater noise
Each theme in turn has indicators which are measured and investigated in the environmental monitoring
programme. Eutrophication, hazardous substances, marine debris, noise, physical loss and physical
disturbance to habitats, fish including by-catch and non-native species.
What impact development of an offshore wind farm can have and the scope of the impact will be
investigated in the forthcoming EQS.
4.3 Overview of nearby wind farm developments
Where there are nearby wind farms, so-called cumulative effects can occur. Table 9below lists the off-
shore wind power developments which are current being processed by the reviewing authorities. Figure
16shows an overview of the surrounding wind power developments which have been built, received
authorisation/permits to build or are under consideration.
All the wind turbines constructed in the vicinity of the Skidbladner wind farm are onshore.
Table 9. Summary of nearby planned offshore wind power developments within 50 km of the offshore project area. Distance is
from the outer limit of the Skidbladner project area.
Name Distance Operators Status
Baltic Offshore Epsilon 0 km Njordr Offshore Wind AB Managed by
Deep Wind Offshore DWO
Erik Segersäll Vindpark 0 km Managed by
Sverige AB
Baltic Offshore Delta 8 km Njordr Offshore Wind AB Managed by
Baltic Offshore Alpha 39 km Njordr Offshore Wind AB Managed by
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Figure 16. Overview of the nearby wind power developments (Vindbrukskollen). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska
zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Vinkraftverk –
Farma wiatrowa; Beviljat – Permit approved; Handläggs – Permit in the process; Uppfört – Permit being submitted; Överklagat
– Permit appealed.
4.4 Existing cables and lines
Along the Baltic seabed there are several different cables and lines for telecommunications, electricity
transmission and gas. Those lying close to the project areas are the gas lines Nord Stream 1 and 2 be-
tween Russia and Germany, see Figure 17. Nord Stream 2 which is under construction borders the outer
project area which will be considered in the process. In addition, there is a fibre cable, called C-Lion1,
located approx. 500m east of the project area’s limit, but otherwise there are no further cables or lines
within or adjacent to the project area other than those known from available material.
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Figure 17. Existing cables and lines/pipes in the vicinity of the project area (EMODnet, 2022a) & (HELCOM, 2018). Projektområde
– Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters
boarders; Kablar – Cables; Ledningar/rör – Pipelines-, Aktiv – Active; Planerad – Planned; Under konstruktion – Under construc-
tion.
4.5 Depth and marine geology
The ocean depth in the project area varies and lies between 14 m and 197 m, see Figure 18. Since the
depth in the project area is over 60m, it is well-suited to a development of a wind farm with floating
foundations. Approx 0.6% of the project area has a depth shallower than 30 m.
The geology of the area consists predominantly of hard clay and mud. For part of the project area there
is also data on the dominant material for the upper metres from the Geological Survey of Sweden, which
can be seen in Figure 19. From this it can be deduced that there are mainly postglacial clays, muddy
clays and clay muds as well as glacial clays. In places there are also areas of moraine, postglacial silt and
postglacial sand and gravel.
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Figure 18. Depth conditions within and around the project area (EMODnet). Projektområde – Project area; Sjöterritoriets gräns
– Territorial waters boarders.
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Figure 19. Overview of the seabed material within the project area for Skidbladner (HELCOM 2008a & SGU). Projektområde –
Project area; Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Berggrund – Bedrock; Hårdbottenkomplex – Mixed hard bot-
tom; Sand – Sand; Hård lera – Hard clay; Lera – Clay; Postglacial lera – Postglacial clay; Postglacial silt – Postglacial silt; Post-
glacial finsand – Postglacial fine sand; Postglacial sand och grus – Postglacial sand and gravel; Postglacial grus och sten –
Postglacial gravel and stones; Glacial lera – Glacial clay; Sedimentär berggrund – Sedimentary bedrock; Kristallin berggrund -
Crystalline bedrock; Isälvsavlagring i allmänhet – Glacial desposition; Morän - Moraine.
4.6 Oceanographic parameters
The Baltic Sea is a semi-enclosed sea surrounded by nine countries with limited flow to the ocean. Water
circulation is dominated by salinity and temperature difference rather than by winds. Surface water
salinity, halocline strength 3 and surface water temperature decrease to the north where the impact of
winter ice cover increases. Due to the shallow thresholds in the Baltic Sea, the turnover time of the
water is around 30 years in the southern Baltic Sea and 40 years in the northern part. This means that
the Baltic Sea is heavily affected by drainage from the surrounding land masses (Snoeijs-Leijonmalm,
Schubert, & Radziejewska, 2017).
4.6.1 Currents & salinity
Ocean currents are created by differences in water levels, salinity and temperature, the moon and sun’s
gravitational pull as well as winds. In addition, currents are also influenced by coastlines, seabed topog-
raphy, the earth’s rotation and friction between bodies of water and the seabed. Sea water is always
moving and the greatest movements occur horizontally while vertical movements are smaller due to
density stratification(SMHI, 2011).
3
The divide between two bodies of water with different salinities. Also known as the saltier layer.
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Salinity in the Baltic Sea is heavily impacted by the drainage of fresh water from the surrounding land
masses. The average salinity in the Baltic Sea is 7g salt per kg water, which can be compared to the
average salinity of sea water of 35g. Salinity reduces northwards with around 20g per kg water in the
south and 2g in the Gulf of Bothnia. The location of the project area for Skidbladner has salinity of around
6 g per kg water (Östersjön.fi, u.d.).
In the Baltic Sea there is no strong permanent system of currents, so it is mainly locally produced cur-
rents as a result of wind and other factors which can have an impact on the proposed wind power
development. The fresh water which drains into the sea lies in a thin layer and moves over the heavier
salt water turning to the right due to the earth’s rotation. Gradually, the fresh water mixes with sea
water, creating a large-scale coastal current which slowly moves southwards along the coast(SMHI,
2021).
Inflow into the Baltic Sea comes from Skagerrak and Kattegatt. The inflow consists of salty and oxygen-
rich water which affects the oxygen conditions in the Baltic Sea. Since the incoming water has a higher
salinity, it settles underneath the fresh water. Water is distributed by seabed currents in the Baltic Sea
to the east and north, where salinity decreases over time as a result of mixing with the existing water,
see Figure 20. This process heavily influences the ecosystem in the Baltic Sea (SMHI, 2012).
The nearest measuring station to the project area for oceanographic parameters is Huvudskär Ost Buoy
which is located to the north of the project area. From open data, the 2m depth average current speed
is calculated at 10.8cm/s between May 2001 and May 2021. At 40 m depth the average speed was
20.5cm/s and at 90 m depth the average speed was 10.6 cm/s during the same period(SMHI, u.d.).
Figure 20. Schematic of the spread of inflowing deep water into the Baltic Sea (SMHI, 2012). Projektområde – Project area; Ut-
bredning av inflödande djupvatten – Inflow of the water.
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4.6.2 Depth of visibility
Data recorded between 2010–2021 from measuring station BY29/LL19, located inside the project area,
shows that the depth of visibility 4varies during and across years between 3-18m. This means that there
is limited depth of visibility in large parts of the project area(SMHI, 2022b). The greater the depth of
visibility, the deeper sunlight penetrates.
4.6.3 Oxygen-free seabeds
Oxygen is required for more life to thrive in the sea. Surface water is oxygenated through plant photo-
synthesis and exchange with the atmosphere. To oxygenate the deeper water, either a vertical mixing
with the oxygen-rich surface water is needed or oxygen-rich water is added horizontally. In the Baltic
Sea proper, there is stratification of the bodies of water due to the varying salinities, saltier water deeper
and fresh water closest to the surface which make vertical mixing difficult. In addition, there are several
deep wells in the Baltic Sea which light doesn’t penetrate and where salty water gathers. In these envi-
ronments it is too dark for plants and no photosynthesis can occur so the oxygen which is present is
consumed by the decomposition of organic matter. This leads to the formation of oxygen-free or oxy-
gen-poor seabeds. Oxygen-free seabeds are a widespread problem in the Baltic Sea proper and it is
calculated that at depths below 80 m no life exists on the beds seeFigure 21 (Havet.nu, u.d.)
From measuring station Huvudskär Ost Buoy, the average oxygen content was calculated at 0.16m/l at
90 m depth and 13.61 ml/l at 1 m depth during the period from May 2013 to May 2021. (SMHI, u.d.).
The project area consists of 90% oxygen-free seabeds.
4
A measure of the water transparency.
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Figure 21. Map of oxygen situation in the Baltic Sea deep water. Black areas show oxygen-free seabeds. Map based on data
from 2021(Sveriges miljömål, 2021) Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic
zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
4.6.4 Waves
One measure used to report the height of waves is the significant wave height. This parameter is
determined from all waves during a 30-minute period from which the average height of the highest
third of waves in the interval is calculated. This definition corresponds with what a sailor would observe
when assessing the height of waves (SMHI, 2022a). From the Huvudskär Ost Buoy measuring station,
the average value for significant wave height for the period from May 2001 to May 2021 was 0.95m.
The average maximum wave height for the same period was 1.52 m with the max value during the same
period being 9.2m(SMHI, u.d.).
4.6.5 Ice
The Baltic Sea usually starts to freeze in November in the Gulf of Bothnia and the inner Gulf of Finland.
That is followed by freezing in Kvarken, southern parts of the Gulf of Bothnia and along the coast in the
Bothnian Sea. The extent of freezing varies. In a normal winter, the entire Gulf of Bothnia, Kvarken,
almost all of the Bothnian Sea, the Archipelago Sea and even some of the Baltic Sea freeze. A mild winter
means that the Gulf of Bothnia doesn’t freeze at all and the Gulf of Finland only partially (Meteorologiska
Institutet , 2022).
As the climate warms up, this leads to less sea ice. More location specific conditions for ice formation
around the wind turbine development will be studied further.
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Figure 22. The maximum extent of ice on three different occasions(Meteorologiska Institutet , 2022).
4.7 National Interest
Chapters 3 and 4 of the Environmental Code (EC) set out the provisions for land and water management.
With support of Chapter 3 of the Environmental Code, the national authorities highlight areas of
national interest such as nature conservation, cultural heritage, energy production and outdoor
recreation. National interests under Chapter 4 are written into the Environmental Code directly.
When an area is designated a national interest, it is protected from measures which could seriously
damage its purpose or value. The level of protection is regulated by the Environmental Code which is
used as guidance in the event of two conflicting interests.
4.7.1 Chapter 3 Environmental Code
The national interests under Chapter 3 EC located in or near to the project area can be seen in Figure
23. The national interest for natural conservation is partly within the project are as it crossed the terri-
torial border by around 500 m and the project area follows the territorial boundary. The national inter-
est for natural conservation consists of a complex ridge formation on the seabed. Marine investigations
have determined that this arose as a consequence of the movement of inland ice in the Baltic Sea basin.
The area also has a special composition of species and biomasses which are unique to the Baltic
Sea(Grönqvist & Martinsson, u.d.).
The project area is also adjacent to the national marine heritage sites of Sankt Olof & Nåttarö, respec-
tively south and north west of the project area. Three adjacent shipping routes are found around the
project area. These are described further below under the heading Shipping routes.
On the Gotska sandön, approx. 22 km from the project areas limit, there is a national interest for cultural
heritage classed as a national interest for the island’s history and environment influenced by its isolated
position in the middle of the Baltic Sea and which reflects a unique farming environment from Viking
times to today(Riksantikvarieämbetet, 2019).
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Figure 23. Nearby conflicting interests from Chapter 3 of the Environmental Code. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska
zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Försvarsmakten
(Sjöövningsområde) – National Defence (Naval exercise area); Energiproduktion (vind) – Energy production (vindfarms);
Friluftsliv – Outdoor recreation; Kulturmiljövärd – Cuture heritage protection areas; Naturvård – Nature protection areas;
Yrkesfiske: Hav – Commersial fishery, open sea; Yrkesfiske: Kustzon – Commersial fishery, coastline; Farled – Ferry routes; MSA
– område –Minimum Safe Altitude area (MSA).
Airports
MSA area (minimum safety altitude) determines the area within which there are determined heights for
the highest permitted objects in the area around an airport. In this area, no fixed installations higher
than the determined MSA for the area permitted.
Several MSA areas for nearby airports are located west and south of the project area. No MSA areas
infringe on the project area.
Shipping routes
The project area is located adjacent to the national interest shipping lane, see Figure 23.
• Bay of Riga - Almagrundet, shipping lane class 0, protected height 65 m, protected depth 19 m
• Gedser – Svenska Björn, shipping lane class 0, protected height 65m, protected depth 19 m
• Stenkyrkehuk - Ristna (Estonia), shipping lane class 0, protected height 65 m, protected depth
19 m
(Trafikverket, u.d.).
Attention must be paid to existing shipping lanes when locating and designing a wind farm. It is advisable
to have a safety distance between the shipping lanes and the nearest wind turbines and any such
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distance will be determined according to the local conditions. Consultation with the Swedish Maritime
Administration will be carried out with the permit application.
According to available material, there are no known lighthouses within the project area. The nearest
lighthouse is located on the Gotska Sandön.
The Swedish Maritime Administration will be part of the consultation group for the project.
4.7.2 Chapter 4 Environmental Code
The areas identified as national interests for outdoor recreation are of great importance for people
outdoor lives and within these areas, municipalities should consider outdoor recreation in the overview
and detailed planning.
The Skidbladner project area is adjacent to the national interest for active outdoor recreation within the
territorial waters around Gotland and the Gotska Sandön. This national interests also exists along the
mainland coast together with the national interest for highly developed coast in the northern part and
unbroken coastline in the southern part, see Figure 24.
Figure 24. Nearby conflicting interests from Chapter 4 Environmental Code. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens
yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Högexploateradkust –
Highly exploited coastline; Obruten kust – Unexploited coast; Rörligt friluftsliv – Outdoor recreation area.
4.8 Protected areas
Within the scope of Chapter 7 of the Environmental Code, land and water areas can be protected with
different types of designation such as nature reserves, Natura 2000 areas, national parks and specific
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animal or plant protected areas. The following chapter describe those which lie in the project area for
Skidbladner.
4.8.1 Natura 2000
Natura 2000 is a network of protected areas across all of the EU member states. The basis for the
network is two EU directives, the Birds Directive and Habitats Directive. Natura 2000 areas contribute
to the conservation of biodiversity at an EU level. Natura 2000 areas constitute both protected areas
under Chapter 7 of the Environmental Code and national interests under Chapter 4 of the Environmental
Code.
Four different Natura 2000 areas have been identified within an area 50km from the project limit. These
have been summarised below in Table 10 and a description regarding its natural value follows.
Table 10. Summary of Natura 2000 area within 50km of the project area limit. SCI= Species & habitats directive, SPA= Birds
directive
Name Distance to project area limit Natura 2000
Gotska Sandön-Salvorev 0 km SCI
Bullerö-Bytta 49 km SCI
Fjärdlång 50 km SCI
Huvudskär 50 km SCI
Gotska Sandön-Salvorev
Gotska Sandön is located 38 km north of Fårö, 22 km from the limit of the project area and is almost
entirely covered by sand with many types of valuable sand environments and special flora and fauna.
The island is located at the crest of the 120 km long underwater ridge of moraine, gravel and sand. This
stretches from Klint’s bank east of Gotland via Salvorev northeast of Fårö up to Kopparstenarna. The
climate on the Gotska sandön is different from the mainland. Winters are usually mild, spring comes
later, summer is often very hot and dry and autumn is long and mild. In addition, it is very dry on the
island with one of the lowest amounts of precipitation in the country with a lot of wind which
contributes to the dryness. The insect fauna on the island is of great interest as many species are linked
to the sand environment and pine forest. There are also many migrating birds across the island,
especially in spring (Länsstyrelsen Gotland, 2018).
The habitats and species protected by the species and habitat directive are:
• Sandbanks
• Reefs
• Baltic Sea sand beaches
• Dunes
• White dunes
• Grey dunes
• Tree-covered dunes
• Dune marshes
• Low grassland
• Leafy meadows
• Grey seals
• Boros schneideri
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Bullerö-Bytta
Bullerö-Bytta is a 14,315 ha large Natura 2000 area located approx. 50 km from the limit of the project
area for Skidbladner in the Stockholm archipelago. The area consists of four nature reserves of major
natural and cultural value both on land and water environments. As the area is largely untouched and
has large topographic variation, there are good condition for high biodiversity for animals and plants.
Within the area there are also small population of some rare species such as the Barred Warbler and
Greater Scaup (Länsstyrelsen Stockholm, 2016a).
The habitats and species protected by the species and habitat directive are:
• Sandbanks
• Lagoons
• Reefs
• Small islands and skerries in the Baltic Sea
• Beach meadows on the Baltic Sea
• Siliceous grassland
• Tree-covered pasture
• Grey seals
Fjärdlång
The Natura 2000 area Fjärdlång lies in Haninge municipality’s archipelago, east of Ornö. The area
consists of the large islands Fjärdlång and Ängsön-Marskär, smaller islands, islets and small islands and
is a typical example of archipelago nature. The larger islands consist of mostly red and grey gneiss
bedrock. There is also an untouched forest on the islands. Mörviken and Marskärsfladen within the
project area have been identified as important breeding grounds for pike. One part of the Natura 2000
area, Ängsön-Marskär and surrounding waters, is identified as a bird sanctuary. The reserve’s aim is to
conserve vegetation and animal life and the area’s value for outdoor recreation(Länsstyrelsen
Stockholm, 2016b).
The habitats and species protected by the species and habitat directive are:
• Sandbanks
• Lagoons
• Reefs
• Small islands and skerries in the Baltic Sea
• Silicate slopes
• Taiga
• Deciduous forest swamp
• Wooded marsh
Huvudskär
The Natura 2000 area Huvudskär is located southeast of north Utö, approx. 10 km southeast of Ornö.
This area is an archipelago consisting of around 200 islands and skerries. Vegetation is scant in the area
but sometime yellow and white sedum, saxifrage and heart’s ease grow in the shallow rock crevices.
There is rich birdlife in the area with many nesting seabirds including ruddy turnstone (red-listed),
pomarine jaeger, common ringed plover, common merganser and common redshank(Länsstyrelsen
Stockholm, 2016c).
The habitats and species protected by the species and habitat directive are:
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• Reefs
• Small islands and skerries in the Baltic Sea
• Northern Crested Newt
• Grey seals
Figure 25. The Natura 2000 areas in the vicinity of Skidbladner. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns
(EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Natura 2000 (Art- och Habitatdirek-
tivet) – Natura 2000 SPI; Natura 2000 SPA.
4.8.2 Other protected areas
Within the project area there are no protected areas as seen in Figure 26.
In addition to the Natura 2000 areas presented in the previous Chapter, the project area is also adjacent
to a nature reserve identified by HELCOM as a Marine Protected Area (MPA). This nature reserve and
MPA to a great extent cover the same area as the Natura 2000 area Gotska Sandön-Salvorev. In addition,
the Gotska Sandön is also a nature reserve and national park located approx. 22 km from the limit of
the project area.
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Figure 26. Other protected areas in the vicinity of the wind power development Skidbladner. Projektområde – Project area;
Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders;
Naturreservat – Nature reserve; Nationalpark – National Park; Djur- och växtskyddsområde – Fauna and flora protected area;
MPA – Marine Protected area.
4.9 Natural environment
The Baltic Sea’s brackish water conditions give it specific conditions with a mixture of both fresh and
salt water species. The sea is species-poor and therefore especially sensitive as the marine ecosystem
is easily impacted if one species disappears. It is especially sensitive if one of the key species disappears
which can lead to major changes in the ecosystem’s foundations(Baltic Eye, 2022). Habitats in the Baltic
Sea are driven by four main factors: salinity, oxygen content, light and seabed conditions.
The composition of the ecosystem is also influenced by factors such as currents, winds, waves, temper-
ature and seabed substrate.
4.9.1 Demersal plants and animals
The depth of the project area varies between approx .14 m and 197 m in the deepest areas. The seabeds
consist predominantly of hard clay and mud, see Figure 19. According to data from the SGI, post-glacial
clay, muddy clay and clay-mud and glacial clay are present. In places there are also areas of moraine,
postglacial silt and postglacial sand and gravel.
According to information from Sweden’s environmental goals,(Sveriges miljömål, 2022)the project area
largely includes oxygen-poor seabeds which provide poor conditions for many organisms, see Figure 21.
The photic zone, i.e., the depth to which light penetrates into the water, is around 30 m below the
surface at open sea in winter. The limited light conditions means that in the deep parts of the project
area there is no life at all.
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At that depth and soft seabeds below 20 m depth, there are widespread areas of silt-rich seabeds. The
silt consists of organic material from plants and animals which form a blanket over the seabed.
The deep seabeds are home to a variety of animals such as the Baltic Sea mussel, blue mussels, white
marlin, scorpion fish and various types of flatfish and eels.
The location specific environment and seabed conditions within the project area have not yet been
investigated, rather investigations of the seabed conditions will be conducted as part of the further work
on an Environmental Impact Assessment, see Chapter 8.
4.9.2 Marine mammals
The Baltic Sea is home to marine mammals such as porpoises, common seals, grey seals and ringed
seals.
Porpoises
A Baltic Sea population of porpoises lives in the Baltic Sea moving between southern Skåne and the
North Gulf of Bothnia and one of the most important areas for porpoises is found in Hanö Bay. The
species is on the Red List and classes as vulnerable (VU) according to the species data bank’s national
red list. A study carried out by the SAMBAH project estimated the number of porpoises in the Baltic Sea
population at 500(SAMBAH, 2016), see Figure 27.
Modelling has identified areas worth protecting for porpoises in the Baltic Sea(Carlström, J & Carlén, I,
2016), see Figure 28. In this Figure it can be seen that the project area is not within the area of particular
importance for the Baltic Sea population during the summer breeding period or in its zone of
consideration (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022).
The porpoises use other areas of the Baltic Sea during different periods of the year. Between March-
May and February-April, two coastal areas around Gotland are important areas for porpoises. Based on
a combination of acoustic investigation (SAMBAH project) and Kernel density5from older investigations,
the presence of porpoises in the project area is low (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2018).
5
A method of estimating probability density on a limited amount of data.
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Figure 27. The probability of finding porpoises in the Baltic Sea at different times of year (HELCOM, 2016 & HELCOM, 2017).
Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns –
Territorial waters boarders; Sannolikhet för upptäkt av tumlare (Nov-Apr) – Probability for harbour porpoise presence (Nov –
Apr); Sannolikhet för upptäkt av tumlare (Maj-Okt) - Probability for harbour porpoise presence (May – Oct).
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Figure 28. Sensitive areas for Baltic Sea porpoises (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022). Pro-
jektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Terri-
torial waters boarders; Viktigt tumlareområde sommar – Important areas for harbour porpoise, summer; Hänsynzon – Consid-
eration areas.
Seals
The grey seal is the most common seal in Sweden and is mostly found in the Baltic Sea. There are
estimated to be between 37,000 and 50,000 grey seals in the Baltic Sea. Areas with grey seals are found
from the Falsterbo peninsula in Skåne to Haparanda in North Bothnia with the majority of grey seals
being found in the archipelagos of Stockholm and Södermanland, though there are also large population
in the Sea of Bothnia and North Kvarken as well as along the south coast. The grey seal is listed as of
least concern according to the Swedish Red List. The greatest threat to grey seals is climate change
which reduces the pack ice in the Baltic Sea, environmental pollutants and by-catch in commercial
fishing (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022). Based on the national
environmental monitoring programme of seal colonies, the occurrence of seals in the project area is
low(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2018).
The number of ringed seals is estimated at 22,000 animals (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2019b)and
most of them are found in the Gulf of Bothnia. The ringed seal is considered of least concern in the
Swedish Red List. Based on the national environmental monitoring programme of seal colonies, there
are no ringed seals in the project area (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2018).
Common seals are predominantly found along the west coast but also in the Baltic Sea, in the Kalmar
Sound. The population in the Kalmar Sound is classed as vulnerable (VU) in the red list. In 2005, it was
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estimated to be maximum 477 animals. Based on the national environmental monitoring programme
of seal colonies, no common seals are found in the project area(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2018).
4.9.3 Fish
A variety of fresh and salt water fish species are found in the Baltic Sea. The number of fish species in
the Baltic Sea is around 80(Baltic Eye, 2022). Cod, haddock, herring and sprats are among the species
found in the Baltic Sea. One of the key species in the Baltic Sea is cod.
According to data evidence from HELCOM there is no cod spawning within the project area (HELCOM,
2021)and the presence of cod is considered low within the project area and the occurrence of spawning
areas for the main species for commercial fishing is assessed as low (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten,
2018). The presence of herring and sprats in the project area is rather higher than for cod and sprats
are believed to spawn within the project area (HELCOM, 2021).
A survey of the occurrence of different fish species will be conducted together with the Environmental
Impact Assessment, see Chapter 8.
4.9.4 Birds
Various bird species are found in different marine areas in different ways during the year depending on
whether they are overwintering, resting or foraging. There are often migration routes near the coast.
The bird species found in the Baltic Sea during summer and/or winter can be divided into three groups
based on the type of food they consume. The Baltic Sea’s bird species can be broadly divided into three
groups: those which live on plants in shallow water, those that feed on fish and other animals in the
body of water and those which eat mussels and other seabed animals(Larsson, 2012). Fish-eating birds
can in turn be divided into two groups: flying birds which look for and capture their food on or near to
the surface such as terns and gulls, and those which mainly swim and deep dive for fish such as ducks,
guillemots, skuas, dippers and cormorants. The bird types which mostly eat seabed plants are for
example, eider, velvet scoter, common scoter and long-tailed ducks
Together with the project “Marina skyddsvärden runt Gotland och Öland” led by the Gotland County
Administrative Board in 2018, the Administrative Board produced a report (Larsson, 2018)with the aim
of summarising and interpreting the bird distribution and use of the offshore banks as well as sea and
coastal areas around Gotland and Öland. Several sea birds overwinter in the coastal areas around
Gotland and the Gotska Sandön such as long-tailed ducks, black guillemots, razorbills and others.
The closest breeding grounds for eider and lesser black-backed gulls is found on the Gotska Sandön
southwest of the project area.
The project summary lists a number of areas which should be high priority for protection of long-tailed
ducks and black guillemots. The project area doesn’t cover any of these areas but they lie closer to the
coast in shallower waters than the planned wind farm.
The occurrence of overwintering sea birds within the planned project area is low(Havs- och
vattenmyndigheten, 2018)and according to documents from HELCOM, no red list bird species are found
in the project area.
A survey of the occurrence of birds will be conducted together with the Environmental Impact
Assessment, see Chapter8.
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4.9.5 Bats
19 different species of bat can be found in Sweden, of which 12 are red-listed(Artdatabanken, 2022). All
of the 19 species are strictly protected and bat surveys are therefore required for all types of
development which may have an impact. Sweden has a long tradition of mapping the occurrence of bats
and development of wind power has increased knowledge of bats in the context of the surveys
conducted(de Jong, Gyltje Blank, Ebenhard, & Ahlén, 2020). Several bat species are found on Gotland.
Bats fly over sea only in relatively light winds, rarely at wind speeds above 10m/s. Most activity takes
place at wind speeds below 5 m/s. However, it varies between species. Larger species tolerate stronger
winds but all bats prefer light winds. In addition, very good weather is required for foraging at sea and
intensive and prolonged foraging usually takes place in calm or very light winds when waves are
insignificant or there is still water. These are the same conditions in which insects thrive in large
quantities higher up around wind turbines (Ahlén, Bach, J. Baagø, & Pettersson, 2007). At sea, most bats
fly at heights lower than 40 m and they like to use wind turbines as resting sites.
A survey of the occurrence of bats will be conducted together with the Environmental Impact Assess-
ment, see Chapter 8.
4.10 Fishing
Commercial fishing takes place along the coast and offshore. From this, fishing can be categorised into
a number of groups including pelagic and demersal species(Bergenius, o.a., 2018). Since there is pre-
dominantly oxygen-free seabed in the project area (see Chapter4.6.3) the fishing in the area concerns
pelagic fishing.
In recent years, Swedish fishing in the Baltic Sea has mostly been focused on herring and sprat (Havs-
och vattenmyndigheten, 2022d).
There is no identified national interest for commercial fishing within the project area for Skidbladner.
The nearest area identified is located approx. 11 km south of the project area’s limit. Within the area,
the presence of fishing vessels is restricted, as illustrated below in Figure 29 .
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Figure 29. Vessel density for commercial fishing in the project area and vicinity 2020 (EMODnet, 2022b). Projektområde – Project
area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders;
Riksintresse Yrkesfiske – National interest for commercial fishing; Hav – Open sea; Kustzon – Coastline.
4.11 Marine culture value
A search for known cultural-historical remains has been carried out in the Swedish National Heritage
Board’s database (Riksantikvarieämbetet, 2022), see Figure 30, which showed known remains within
the project area.
Table11 Known cultural historical remains in the project area.(Riksantikvarieämbetet, 2022)
Con-
Remains Type of re- Antiquarian as-
Description firmed in Position
number mains sessment
the field
Galeas from (SWEREF 99 TM N, E)
Vessel/boat No antiquarian as-
L1934:4203 Visby, sank No N 6510970.379,
remains sessment
25/10/1925 (28) E 765314.661
Section 2 Chapter 1 § p. 8 Cultural Environment Act (1988:950) states that shipwrecks constitute ancient
monuments provided that the sinking occurred before 1850. A shipwreck from 1850 or later may be
declared an ancient monument by the County Administrative Board if there are special reasons relating
to its cultural and historical value(Riksantikvarieämbetet, 2014).
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Swedish jurisdiction6can apply in the whole of the Swedish marine territory, i.e., in both the area known
as inner waters and territorial waters. The law on Sweden’s marine territory (1966:374), states that
territorial water extend 12 M (around 22 km) from the baseline. Within this area the Cultural
Environment Act applies in its entirety. In addition, the UN’s Convention on the Law of the Sea of 1982,
gives coastal states the right to establish a so-called contiguous zone outside of the territorial waters.
This zone, also calculated from the baseline, can be up to 24 nautical miles (M) wide. The coastal states
which have established such a zone have the right to protect archaeological and historical finds and
remains found inside this limit. Such a zone was established in Sweden in 2017, Law (2017:1272) on the
Swedish territorial waters and maritime zones.
Figure 30. Cultural value within and near the project area. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ)
– Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Kulturmiljövård – Culture heritage protected
area; Kulturhistoria lämningar – Culture heritage remains; Förlämningar – Remains; Ingen antikvarisk bedömning - No anti-
quarian assessment; Övrig kulturhistorisk lämning – Various cultural heritage remains.
Before a large area of the ocean or a sea ca be exploited, the affected seabeds are surveyed with regard
to existing water depth, presence of flora and fauna, seabed conditions and more. Along with these
surveys, a search for remains can also be conducted. The most suitable method is sonar mapping (Side
Scan Sonar) from a boat. The County Administrative Board can decide that such a survey is required
under the Law on Cultural Monuments (KML) but this can also be done within the framework of an
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA),(Riksantikvarieämbetet, 2017).
6
Jurisdiction or judicial power, to administer justice and to judge. The jurisdiction is limited to a geographic area
or to certain people or a certain subject matter.
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4.12 Outdoor recreation and leisure
An offshore wind farm may have a certain impact on outdoor recreation and leisure. The impact may
consist on physical intrusion and encroachment on areas of high value for outdoor recreation and lei-
sure. The farm also changes the landscape and a changed value of experience from the surrounding
areas. How the value of experiences changes depends on the individual’s opinion of offshore wind
power and isn’t always considered negatively.
The nearest area for active outdoor recreation covers the whole of Gotland including the Gotska sandön
and surrounding waters which are adjacent to the project area, see Figure 31. On the mainland in the
coastal areas and Stockholm archipelago, there are national interest areas for outdoor recreation. Na-
tional interest for outdoor recreation is also found on the Gotska sandön approx. 22 km south west of
the limit of the project area, see Figure 31.
Figure 31. Overview of the national interest for outdoor recreation and activities. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska
zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
4.13 Landscape
Due to their size and constant movement of the rotor bales, wind turbines have a visually dominant
impact on the landscape. Developments are towards even taller wind turbines which are visible across
a wide area. Wind farm developments change the landscape and affect people’s experiences of their
surroundings and local identity. Certain landscapes may be especially sensitive to wind power, while
wind turbines may add value to other landscapes (Boverket, 2009). The planned wind power develop-
ment Skidbladner will involve the landscape changes from an undisturbed horizon to a horizon with a
man-made development.
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The experience of the landscape is largely subjective, driven by individual experiences, knowledge, atti-
tude and use of the landscape. Visualisation is an important part of determining the impact on the land-
scape in the forthcoming EIA.
4.13.1 Obstruction marking
Aviation Obstruction Lighting
The wind turbines will be fitted with obstruction markings in accordance with the Swedish Transport
Agency’s regulations and general guidance on marking objects which may pose a danger to aviation,
currently TSFS 2020:88. Current regulations include the following: A wind turbine over 150 m above
land or sea level (including rotors) must be painted white and equipped with a high intensity white
flashing light at the top of the motor housing (nacelle). If the nacelle is over 150 m above sea level, the
tower must also be marked with at least three low intensity lights from half way up to the nacelle. In a
wind farm, the wind turbines at the edge of the farm must be marked as above as a minimum. Other
wind turbines within the wind farm will be painted white and as a minimum equipped with low intensity
lights on the turbine’s highest fixed point.
The white lights must be illuminated to maximum strength during daytime. During this time the maxi-
mum intensity for the high intensity lights is 100,000 candela (cd). At dusk the light strength can be
reduced to 20,000 cd and during hours of darkness, the regulations permit a reduction to 2,000 cd i.e.,
2% of the daytime light intensity.
Marine Obstruction Lighting
Offshore wind turbines must be equipped with maritime safety devices, such as obstruction lights. This
is in accordance with international recommendations from the marine organisation International
Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), Guideline -G1162. In
addition, this is regulated at a national level in Transportstyrelsens föreskrifter och allmänna råd om
utmärkning till sjöss med sjösäkerhetsanordningar (SSA), TSFS 2017:66.
The wind farms design, size and location will determine which type and how many safety devices are
required. Markings are categorised in two groups, Significant Peripheral Structures (SPS) and
Intermediate Peripheral Structures (IPS). These markings are placed on the wind turbine tower, usually
6-15 m above surface level.
For the example design B for the project, an obstruction lighting analysis has been conducted to see
how obstruction lighting appears for aviation and marine traffic since this impacts how the development
will be experienced, see Figure 32.
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Figure 32. Proposals for how the obstruction lighting may look for the example design B with 111 turbines for both aviation and
marine traffic. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterrito-
riets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Hinderbelysning: Luftfart – Obstacle lighting: Aviation; High intensity white flashing
light; Lågintensivt rött fast ljus - Low-intensity red solid light.
4.13.2 Visibility
The visibility of the example design of Skidbladner has been analysed with the aid of a sightline analysis.
This analysis shows the theoretical distance from which the wind turbines can be seen from the sea
surface before they disappear under the horizon due to the curvature of the earth. Figure 33shows how
far it is theoretically possible to see the tops of the blades in their highest position (the blue and purple
line) as well as the obstruction lighting for aviation (at hub height for example designs A and B, orange
line) at the sea surface in perfect visibility considering the curvature of the earth. The blue line shows
the maximum total height which is envisaged for the project (360m) and the purple and orange line
show how it theoretically appears based on the dimensions of the example designs.
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Figure 33. The lines show the distance the wind turbines are still visible from the sea surface for the example designs A and B
(Chapter3.2.1). The blue and purple line shows from how far away the top of the blades in their highest position are visible and
the orange shows from how far away the obstruction lighting is visible from the sea surface for aviation (hub height).
Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns –
Territorial waters boarders.
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5 IMPACT FACTORS
The environmental impact and individual and public interest differ across the three project phases:
construction phase, operation phase and decommissioning phase, in terms of both scope and time.
Some of the impact factors are not relevant to all parts of the project phases. These impact factors can,
in turn, lead to the impact and environmental effects reviewed in Chapter 7below.
An important aspect when looking at the impact of an activity is the duration of the impact and severity
of the specific impact for the respective species’ population. An impact for a long period of time, for
example 30-40 years of operation, is considered more significant for population development than a
temporary impact for 1-2 years unless the latter is very large (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman,
& Andresson-Li, 2022).
Table12 Table of possible impact factors in the three project phases Large X: high impact, small x: low impact, no x: no impact.
Construction Decommissioning
Impact factors Operational phase
phase phase
WIND FARM, MEASURING STATIONS, OSS AND INTERNAL CABLE NETWORK
Sound (underwater sound, op-
X x X
erational sound, noise)
Turbidity X x X
Landscape x X x
Increase traffic (vessels) X x X
Collision risk x X x
Habitat loss x x x
New habitats x X
Electromagnetic field x X
Climate (emissions to the air) X x X
Shadows X
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Table13 Possible impact factors of downstream activities for the three project phases for export cable. Large X: high impact,
small x: low impact, no x: no impact.
Construction Decommissioning
Impact factors Operational phase
phase phase
ACCOMPANYING ACTIVITIES - EXPORT CABLE
Sound (underwater sound, op-
x x
erational sound, noise)
Turbidity X X
Increase traffic (vessels) X X
Habitat loss x x x
New habitats x X
Electromagnetic field X
Climate (emissions to the air) x x
5.1 Sound, underwater sound, operational sound, noise
During the three project phases, different types of noise will occur but the greatest impact of noise will
be in the construction phase. The groups of species most impacted by the predominantly high intensity
submarine noise are fish and marine mammals (Vindval, 2022). The vessels used during all three phases
for construction, operation and decommissioning also emit noise.
Noise is also emitted by the site surveys conducted during the planning phase as surveys and data
collection are conducted to apply for and receive the required permits and to identify the final design
of the wind farm.
In the construction phase, anchoring the floating foundations and substations emits noise as well as the
construction of the internal cable network. The scope of the noise depends on the final choice of
anchoring method.
In the operational phase, the wind turbines emit a swishing noise created when the rotor blades cut
through the air. The scope of the noise depends on the rotor blades’ size and design, the rotation speed
and the surrounding wind conditions. The motor housing itself also emits a sound. The wind turbine’s
rotation also gives rise to a low frequency noise which is the consequence of vibrations in the tower or
noise from the motor housing. The noise varied with the wind speed.
In the decommissioning phase, the scope of the noise emitted is similar to the construction phase.
5.2 Turbidity
Due to the anchoring of foundations and substations, installation of cables and decommissioning of the
wind farm, some disturbance of sediment can occur. The scope of the turbidity depends on the choice
of anchoring method, type of seabed substrate, salinity, water temperature and the areas
currents(Naturvårdsverket, 2009).
In the operational phase, the chains anchoring the wind turbines may cause some disturbance and
distribution of sediment. The scope of turbidity in the operational phase depends on changes in water
conditions and anchoring method.
The effect of turbidity is also related to the occurrence of any pollutants in the seabed sediment.
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5.3 Landscape
In the construction and decommissioning phases, vessels will be seen in the wind farm area, as well as
the transport route used to transport to and from the shore. In the operational phase, the wind turbines
will visibly change the landscape, which varies with the total height of the wind turbines and the distance
from the beholder to the various turbines.
5.4 Increased shipping
There will be increased shipping during the three different phases. The increase will be greatest during
the construction and decommissioning phases. In the operational phase, service vessels will travel
between land and the wind farm.
5.5 Collision risk
The wind farm and its substations and wind turbines create a collision risk for vessels, birds and bats.
5.6 Habitat loss
Some habitat loss will occur in the construction and decommissioning phases. Habitat loss will be both
temporary and permanent. The extent of this depends on the anchoring method and choice of method
for laying cables.
5.7 New habitats
New habitats will arise within the wind farm in the operational phase in the form of hard surfaces. These
new habitats consist of the anchorages fixing the wind turbines to the seabed, cable protection on the
seabed, substations and the wind turbine floating foundations.
5.8 Electromagnetic field
In the operational phase an electromagnetic field will be created by the internal cable network. The
electromagnetic field is formed by the generation and transmission of electricity. The electromagnetic
impact decreases with distance from the cables.
5.9 Climate, emissions to the air
During all three phases there will be increased emissions to the air from the vessels and machines used.
The greatest increase will be in the construction and decommissioning phase as many work boats and
machines will be used. The amount of emissions can be regulated through choice of fuel.
In operation, the wind farm will contribute to renewable and emission-free electricity which will replace
other electricity produced from fossil fuels.
5.10 Shadows
In the operational phase there will be both fixed and mobile shadows from the wind turbine’s tower
and rotor blade. The scope of the shadows depends on the position of the sun in relation to the wind
turbine and varies throughout the day. The scope of the shadow also depends on the weather and is
lower when it is cloudy. The intensity of the shadow is reduced with distance from the tower. At most,
the shadows will penetrate to a depth corresponding to the photic zone, i.e., the depth to which sunlight
penetrates below the surface, approx. 30m.
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6 PROTECTIVE MEASURES
In all three phases of establishing an offshore wind farm disturbances and impacts on the surrounding
area can arise. The impact can be both direct and indirect and varies in nature and scope depending on
the phase of the development. The conditions in the relevant area also determine the scope of
environmental impact(Havs- och Vattenmyndigheten, 2022c).
During the introductory work in the authorisation process for an offshore wind farm a comprehensive
location survey is conducted with the aim of finding the optimal site for the development. The location
survey takes into consideration to conflicting interests and existing natural values as well as the
presence of sensitive species. This survey is a protective measure in itself, since it considers the
environmental sensitivity on the basis of existing evidence.
In addition, technical solutions in respect of the choice of foundation and construction methods create
different scopes of environmental impact.
In order to reduce the negative impact, a number of protective methods and precautions can be used.
This may involve technical solutions or regulating the time of year or day when certain types of work
can be carried out.
To reduce the negative impact on fish spawning, sensitive periods of time can be avoided and the same
can be done to adapt the time of the work to porpoise mating and calving periods. Times when certain
work can be conducted can be regulated in the conditions of authorisation.
In the event the construction period causes extensive underwater noise, noise protecting methods can
be used in the form of bubble curtains or hydro sound dampers (HSD) or a combination of these. A so-
called ramp- up can also be used, where the pile driving intensity is gradually increased allowing fish and
porpoises to the opportunity to leave the area before the noise increases (Naturvårdsverket, 2012).
Sediment dispersal can occur with anchoring and decommissioning of the floating foundations.
Sediment dispersal depends on the mooring method as well as the character of the seabed and
presence of any environmental pollutants. Sediment dispersal can also occur due to the laying and
removal of the external cable network. Sediment dispersal shouldn’t occur in the important fish
breeding areas in breeding season. Should there be a risk of comprehensive turbidity there are methods
to reduce the dispersal.
Use of vessels in the construction phase can be planned in such a way that the number of transports is
reduced and thus minimised.
The applications for establishing the Skidbladner wind farm will include proposals for appropriate
protective measure adapted to the scope and conditions of the activity seeking authorisation.
Following receipt of a permit, a control program will be established and conducted to facilitate the final
design of measures to reduce the negative impact on the environment.
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7 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACTS
Impact and environmental effects occur in the three different phases of establishing a wind farm. The
scope of the impact differs between the three phases in terms of time and space. The scope of
environmental effects also depends on the choice of technical solutions, protective measures and
working methods for mooring and construction.
The planned wind farm will be constructed in the deeper parts of the Baltic Sea with oxygen-poor
seabeds and both flora and fauna are generally poorer in deep environments than shallow. Marine
species which live in the deep hard seabeds are especially lacking in the Baltic Sea due to the low salt
content. According to the report Ekologisk hållbar vindkraft i Östersjön, it is good from a sustainability
perspective that wind farms tend to be built in areas with deep water as a wind farm sited in a deep
area causes less disturbance to the benthic environment. The report also includes an assessment of the
oxygen-free areas which are the most suitable locations to build floating wind power in the Baltic Sea
from an environmental perspective(Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022).
Below is an overview of the impact on various interests as initially assessed based on existing
information. Under the relevant heading, only those factors are described that are initially considered
to have a potential impact on the respective interest, others are omitted. The impact of the activity will
be investigated within the framework of the forthcoming EIA and a more thorough description and
assessment of the environmental effects will also be conducted within this. The statement below
includes the different technical alternatives being investigated for consideration. The forthcoming
environmental impact assessment will be based on a worst-case scenario for each technical alternative
investigated.
The environmental effect of accompanying activities and the export cable are difficult to assess
currently, since the placement, dimensions and laying method are not yet determined. A cable will be
laid on or in the seabed and may have some environmental impact, mostly for a limited time during the
construction phase. The marine environment may be affected by the dispersal of sediment and in some
cases, there may be a risk of environmental pollutants being released. Where an assessment can be
made, from existing knowledge and experience, this is described under the relevant heading below.
7.1 National interest
The national interest for natural value is found in a very limited part of the project area under Chapter
3 EC. This part won’t be installed with wind turbines due to the shallow depth which is not suitable for
floating wind turbines. The project area is adjacent to a national interest for defence, a naval training
area and a national interest shipping lane. These are initially considered not to be affected by the
establishment of a wind farm within the project area. None of aviation’s MSAs will be affected by the
proposed wind farm. The wind turbines will be marked with obstruction lighting as described in
Chapter4.13.1.
The project area is adjacent to a national interest for active outdoor recreation according to Chapter 4
EC. Establishment of a wind farm is initially judged as not impacting the opportunity of exercising this
national interest. However, the area’s landscape value should be highlighted in the forthcoming
landscape analysis.
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7.2 Protected areas
The project area is adjacent to the Natura 2000 area, Gotska Sandön – Salvorev. In the northern part of
the Natura 2000 area there are sandbanks (1110) and reefs (1170) which are among the priority pro-
tected values for the area. One of the negative impact factors listed in the conservation plan concerning
these sandbanks and reefs is swell from boats which can impact the zoning of reefs and banks. Changes
to currents and circulation can also impact these reefs and banks.
The impact on currents from floating wind turbines is limited as only the mooring chains make contact
with the seabed in deep water, as with the internal cable network. In a comparison of fixed and floating
foundation, the impact of seabed currents and waves was much lower for floating foundations (Farr,
Ruttenberg, K. Walter, Wang, & White, 2021).
During the establishment, operation and decommissioning of the wind farm, vessel traffic will be limited
or avoided entirely in the area with protected banks and reefs. These measures can avoid a negative
impact.
Some turbidity may occur in the construction and decommissioning phases. Turbidity occurs with con-
struction and lifting of the seabed anchors which moor the wind turbines to the seabed. According to
data from the nearest measuring buoy at Huvudskär Ost the average speed at 90 m depth was 10.6m/s.
Data concerns measurements from a 20-year period, see Chapter 4.6.1.
7.3 Natural environment
7.3.1 Demersal plants and animals
The project area is located mostly within an area of great depth, below the photic zone. Only approx.
0.6% of the project area is shallower than 30 m. No floating wind turbines or OSSs will be placed in the
shallow area. Around 90 % of the project area consists of oxygen-poor seabeds which create poor con-
ditions for rich biological seabed life. The seabeds predominantly consist of clay of different hardness.
The depth of visibility is limited and the penetration of the sun to the deepest parts is zero.
Some physical disturbance may arise during the construction phase due to the turbine and substation
mooring work and cable laying. The disturbance consists of turbidity, noise and the impact on the sea-
bed substrate. Turbidity may arise in the construction phase and can spread to a limited area around
the substations, anchors and cables. Any impact on the immediate vicinity may also be seen through
some coverage of seabeds in connection with mooring and cable laying as well as construction of sub-
stations. The impact on the different existing species depends on their normal exposure to turbidity.
After construction, the seabeds will be recolonised relatively comprehensively, as any coverage is
judged to be limited(Sveriges Lantbruksuniversitet, 2020). Some disturbance of seabed-living animals
may occur due to the noise of construction works.
In the operational phase, hard surfaces from the different parts of the wind farm can lead to the estab-
lishment of species which live on hard seabeds. The low frequency noise emitted during the operational
phase is not judged to have a negative impact on seabed life(Vindval, 2022). The impact of the electro-
magnetic field from cables, is judged to be non-existent during the operational phase. According to
existing studies, there is no evidence that this magnetic field should have a negative impact on organ-
isms at population level(Vindval, 2022).
In the decommissioning phase, physical disturbances will arise corresponding to those in the
construction phase.
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A final assessment of the impact on seabed plants and animals in the different phases will be conducted
following the forthcoming investigations and EIA.
The methodology for laying export cables is still unclear but the cables will need to be laid either on or
in the seabed which will cause turbidity. The extent of the turbidity and how far the particles spread
depends on the actual seabed substrate, current conditions and the choice of laying method. The
smaller the particles on the seabed, such as clay, the greater the turbidity. Smaller particles spread fur-
ther than the is the same measure is carried out on a sand or stone seabed. The size of the particles
determines the length of time before they settle on the seabed again and therefore the spread and
thickness of the subsequent sediment deposits. Some coverage of the seabed may also occur. New
habitats may arise if the cable is laid on the seabed and protected with stones or blocks.
7.3.2 Marine mammals
In the construction phase, along with the arising high noise, there may be a risk of negative impacts on
porpoises and seals. Sudden, high noises can lead to behavioural changes and hearing damage should
the animals be in the vicinity of the construction area. If protective measures are taken and particular
attention is paid to important times of year for porpoises, these negative risks can be avoided.
In the operational phase, the wind farm can have a positive effect on seals and porpoises where the
establishment leads to a greater occurrence of hard seabed species and fish, The noise emitted during
operation does not appear to adversely affect either seals or porpoises(Vindval, 2022). Altogether the
impact during the operational phase is judged as low (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman, &
Andresson-Li, 2022).
In the decommissioning phase, the effects are judged to correspond to those during the construction
phase.
A final assessment of the impact on marine mammals in the different phases will be conducted following
the forthcoming investigations and the EIA.
The export cable will be laid by a cable laying vessel which will generate noise from the vessel and the
equipment used for laying on the seabed. As cable laying is judged to be quite quick and the total time
the vessel will be in a specific area is limited, the impact from noise related to the presence of vessels is
initially judged to be low.
7.3.3 Fish
In the construction phase, underwater noise will arise due to the laying of cables and mooring founda-
tions and construction of substations. The size of the disturbance depends on which mooring and con-
struction methods are chosen. Increased presence of boats and work vessels will also generate noise.
This noise may cause escape responses in fish(Vindval, 2012). Fish may also be negatively impacted by
turbidity and the suspended material which occurs with work on soft seabeds. The size of the disturb-
ance depends on the nature of the seabed, current speeds, mooring and construction methods, protec-
tive measures and the amount and species of fish present in the area at the time. Which time of the
year work is carried out is also a decisive factor in the impact on fish.
The noise emitted by the wind turbines in the operational phase arises when the rotors spin. This noise
does not appear to adversely affect fish to the extent that it would inhibit fish behaviour (Vindval, 2022).
If more species of hard seabed species arise on the structures of the wind farm, this could lead to a
positive impact on fish. Studies of cod show that their presence increases near wind farms which is
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probably due to the increased availability of food and possibly protection. Regulation of commercial
fishing often occurs with the establishment of wind farms which also brings about areas of sea where
fish are protected from commercial fishing. During the operational phase, no significant negative impact
on fish is expected as the effects of the addition of artificial facilities bring about several positive effects.
Studies around Lillgrund wind farm showed that the site attracted fish to the area and that any negative
effects of the cables and noise was insignificant(Bergström, Sundqvist, & Bergström, 2012). It is noted,
however, that these results were based on a wind farm with fixed seabed foundations.
During the decommissioning phase, an impact corresponding to that in the construction phase may
arise.
A final assessment of the impact on fish in the different phases will be conducted following the forth-
coming investigations and EIA.
The impact factors on fish from the export cable may arise in connection with laying as turbidity and
noise may arise. In relation to the operational phase, the main impact is the generation of electromag-
netic fields in the vicinity of the cables. An electromagnetic field is generated around the export cable
as it is around the internal cable network.
7.3.4 Birds
The impact on birds in the construction phase is considered to be low. In relation to the wind farm’s
total life span, the period of time is relatively short. However, consideration must be paid to birds during
the important breeding season.
During the operational phase, the establishment of an offshore wind farm can cause a loss of habitat
and displacement of birds. The farm’s presence can also cause barrier effects for migratory and foraging
birds. When birds have to detour around wind farms, there is greater energy loss. Offshore wind farms
can also create a collision risk for birds if they fly too close to the rotor blade(Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland
Isæus, C Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022).
The impact on birds in the decommissioning phase is judged to correspond to that of the construction
phase.
A study of the presence of birds will be carried out within the framework of the forthcoming EIA.
7.3.5 Bats
If there are migrating or hunting bats in the project area, they may be affected by the establishment of
a wind farm.
To determine the impact on bats which may occur during the three different project phases, a survey
of the presence of bats will be conducted within the framework of the forthcoming EIA.
7.4 Fishing
The project area does not include any identified national interest for commercial fishing and the nearest
identified area for this is situation approx. 11 km south of the project areas outer limit. According to
known information about the area, even the presence of fishing vessels is limited, see Figure 29.
During the construction and decommissioning phase, the accessibility of the area for fishing will be lim-
ited.
Any pelagic fishing currently carried out in the project area may need to be restricted during the oper-
ational phase in the area where turbines, substations and moorings will be located. Since pelagic fishing
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and angling do not impact the seabed cables, some fishing can continue to take place within the project
area.
Based on currently available information, the impact on commercial fishing will not be significant.
Through dialogue with commercial fishing during the consultation process, the impact on commercial
fishing will be further investigated for the different phases of the project.
The export cable will be laid either on or in the seabed and thus protected from the impact of commer-
cial fishing. Depending on the fishing methods used within the area of the export cable, some impact
on commercial fishing may arise within a very limited area.
7.5 Marine culture value
In connection with the forthcoming investigations ahead of the EIA, a marine archaeological survey will
be conducted. If this survey reveals the presence of remains this will be handled according to current
legislation, alternatively these areas will be exempted from any establishment which may adversely af-
fect the marine cultural value.
For the export cable, a similar study as for the wind farm will be conducted.
7.6 Outdoor recreation and leisure
In the construction phase, some impact may arise due to the transports to the project area. The amount
of vessel traffic will increase and disturbance from that will depend on the time of year. In general, there
is more vessel traffic at sea due to outdoor recreation and increased boating activities. During the con-
struction phase there may be barriers and safety distances preventing recreational boats from visiting
the area.
In the operational phase the wind farm will be accessible to visitors in recreational boats.
During the decommissioning phase, an impact corresponding to that in the construction phase may
arise.
7.7 Landscape
Experience of the landscape is largely subjective, driven by individual experiences, knowledge, attitude
and use of the landscape. The lie of sight analysis presented in Figure 33 shows the theoretical visibility
at sea level in respect of obstruction lighting and the highest point of the rotor blades. Obstacle lighting
and wind turbines will be visible from the Gotska sandön and Huvudskär. From Fårö and the outer is-
lands of the Stockholm archipelago parts of the rotor blades will be visible.
The planned wind power development Skidbladner will involve the landscape changes from an
undisturbed horizon to a horizon with a mobile, man-made development. Of course, visibility will be
high for recreational boats passing close to the wind farm.
Visualisation and animations are an important part of determining the impact on the landscape in the
forthcoming EIA.
7.8 Cumulative effects
Cumulative effects means those effects which arise when the impact from several sources interact with
each other. For the assessment of cumulative effects, already licensed activities within and around the
project area as well as the wind farm’s accompanying activities are included. Licensed and current
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activities include shipping, wind power and commercial fishing. The current environmental status of the
represented or surrounding body of water will also be included in the assessment.
Which phase of the project other wind power projects in the vicinity are at is also of importance in
assessing the cumulative effects, as well as when the accompanying activities will be carried out in
relation to the construction of the wind farm. If two close farms carry out turbidity and/or noise creating
work in the construction or decommissioning phase at the same time, the cumulative effects will be
greater than if they are at different phases of their respective projects. As far as is reasonable based on
the phase of the projects, the cumulative effects of planned wind power projects in the vicinity will be
assessed in the forthcoming EIA.
Preventative protective measures reduce the risk of extensive cumulative effects. Even the soundscape
can be affected if there are two close wind farms which must also be included in the assessment.
The cumulative effects on fish, birds and commercial fishing during the operational phase will be
surveyed in the forthcoming surveys and investigations conducted in connection with the EIA.
Cumulative effects with regards the export cable will be considered in the forthcoming EIA.
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8 PLANNED INVESTIGATIONS
Comprehensive investigations and surveys will be conducted to establish the evidence required to
complete an EIA for the project. The investigations and surveys currently planned are described below.
8.1 Seabed investigations
Seabed investigations will be conducted for the project area. The aim is to gather information on the
conditions for establishing a wind farm in the area. The evidence will then be used to determine the
design of the wind farm and what is appropriate for the area.
In addition, the evidence will be used to determine the topography and sediment conditions of the
seabed. Sediment samples can be taken to establish the grain size, composition and oxygen content of
the seabed in order to map out the area. This can then be used to assess the conditions for seabed
vegetation and fauna. The survey will also form the basis of a survey of the marine archaeology and any
presence of ordnance.
8.2 Natural environment
To map the natural environment within the project area, investigations of seabed flora and fauna, fish
and invertebrates, marine mammals, birds and bats must be conducted. With the aid of this information,
an assessment can then be made of the possibility of life and any risk of spreading environmental
hazardous substances.
8.3 Cultural heritage
To map remains within the project area, marine geological surveys must be conducted. Evidence from
the geophysical investigations can also be used as evidence for this survey.
8.4 Other surveys
Other surveys and investigations which may be relevant are listed below:
• Noise survey
• Fishing survey (Commercial fishing)
• Aviation and shipping risk analysis
• Landscape analysis
• Natura 2000 survey
• Survey of any cumulative effects
• Survey of the impact of environmental quality standards
• Visualisations and animations
• Meteorological investigation
• Investigate the water quality in the area (lack of oxygen in the area?)
• Survey of presence of remaining ordnance, UXO, in the area
• Current modelling and distribution calculations
• Weather measurements, including wind and waves
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9 RISKS AND SAFETY
There are risks in establishing a large-scale offshore wind-farm which involve high safety requirements.
Safety is therefore prioritised across all phases. The different risks which can arise can be categorised
into different groups such as risk to human health and environmental risk.
Risk to human health can occur in connection to work which emits high noise, handling electrical
equipment or heavy lifting. The environmental risks which can occur include the negative impact which
can arise from establishing an offshore wind farm. This can include oil or other chemical release,
distribution of seabed sediment and high levels of submarine noise which can impact marine life. In
addition to these risks, the project area will be investigated for ammunition and other ordnance which
may cause a specific risk. This will be mapped in the geophysical investigations.
Risks related to the location of the area with regards to shipping may arise.
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10 LOCAL BENEFIT
10.1 Socio-economic benefits
The benefit of wind power is about much more than just energy and the environment. There is the
possibility of positive effects both within business and civil society. For example, the socio-economic
benefit in the form of employment opportunities, high levels of education and the resulting increased
attractiveness. Therefore, it is important that decision makers see the whole picture and have the op-
portunity to evaluate all the benefits which can arise in relation to intrusion and protective measures.
The cost-benefit balance for different target groups/bodies is an important aspect to consider in deci-
sion making.
10.1.1 Employment
Employment may be created within the wind power branch from two main areas. Construction of wind
power strengthens the manufacturing industry and creates jobs. Interaction between the different
parts, for example by sharing skills between companies, is strengthened if the domestic wind power
market develops well. Offshore wind power has been shown to be more labour intensive than onshore
wind power. This applies throughout the life cycle i.e., planning, construction and installation as well as
operation and maintenance. In addition to increased demand for goods and services within the region
of the wind power development, this creates a direct increase in the number of employment opportu-
nities.
10.1.2 Technical learning
Supporting offshore wind power creates a positive dissemination of technical learning. As the market
for offshore wind is international, the knowledge gained by constructing offshore wind farms can be
shared between and within countries. On a global level, Sweden can help other countries to reduce their
emissions by sharing knowledge on renewable electricity production. In the long term as market players
learn more about the technology, costs also decrease which in turn contributes to greater socio-eco-
nomic stability.
10.1.3 Infrastructure
Often, infrastructure is expanded and improved in areas where wind power is established. New roads,
port expansion, electricity grid and fibre arranged in conjunction with the development bring positive
external effect such as increased communication and transport opportunities in the local commu-
nity(Blom, Eriksson, Hillman, & Zandén Kjellén, 2020).
10.1.4 Calculations
The socio-economic calculation is based on a wind farm close to shore with a total of 50 wind turbines
and an output of 10MW.
Planning phase
A positive annual financial contribution is made to the local and regional community as a whole, a large
share of which is also passed onto the state. At the local level, this depends on how many people live in
the municipality (tax base) during the planning phase. If planning takes seven years, this would give an
overall effect of around 43 Mkr in total and approx. 10.8 Mkr to the local community. The annual overall
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employment effect during planning in the report’s calculations is 14 full time jobs when direct and indi-
rect jobs are included.
Construction
The opportunities for the local community to benefit from revenue during construction are, in our view,
significant as ‘accompanying works’ covered by the supplier’s commitment must take place on site and
should be deliverable by existing and start-up businesses - such as electrical work, security and, not
least, continual boat servicing. If preliminary work/construction were to last three years, this would have
a total impact of just over 100 million SEK, of which just over 25 million SEK would be directed to the
local community. The annual overall employment effect during preliminary work in the report’s calcu-
lations is 95 full time jobs when direct and indirect jobs are included.
Operation and maintenance
As the facilities for operation and maintenance must be nearby to be able to implement measure quickly
while maintaining continuous service, the opportunity for the local community to benefit from the social
values created is very large. Several sources expect as much as 90 % of the total value for operation and
maintenance to benefit the local area. This means that people affected probably live in the local
community, that the boat service is always accessible, that monitoring is continuous. We calculate he
annual overall employment effect with regards operation and maintenance as 62 full time jobs when
direct and indirect jobs are included(IUC Sverige AB, 2020).
11 SCHEDULE
Consultation will be conducted between autumn 2022 and spring 2023. After that the investigations
and surveys which will form the basis of the environmental assessment as part of the forthcoming EIA
will begin.
Preliminary content of the Environmental Impact Assessment
On conclusion of the consultation process, an environmental impact assessment (EIA) will be carried
out as a part of the environmental assessment process. The EIA forms a central document in which all
environmental aspects are analysed and assessed, both direct and indirect environmental
consequences during construction, operation and decommissioning. In addition, the EIA will contain
data on the site location, design, scope and other properties which may be significant for the
environmental assessment. To prevent, hinder and counter negative environmental effects of the
activity, the planned measures to be applied will be presented in the EIA.
Below is a summary list of content proposed for inclusion in the EIA.
• Non-technical summary
• Introduction and background
• Location
o Alternative location and implementation
o Zero option
• National maritime plan
o What this looks like for the project area
• Environmental quality standards
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• Geology
o Types of sediment and sediment processes
o Presence of hazardous substance in sediment
o Diffusion models
• Underwater noise generated by the activity
• Impact on current conditions caused by the activity
• Any impact from electromagnetic radiation
• Potential impact on types of nature and species identified in the nearby Natura 2000 area
• Current description of the marine biology within the project area
o Indirect and direct impact on existing species such as fish, birds and marine mammals.
• Impact on conflicting interests such as commercial fishing and outdoor recreation
• Cumulative environmental impact of other activities
• Protective and precautionary measures to minimise negative environmental impact
• Proposed content of the control programme
• Choice of technique and method for preliminary investigations and civil engineering works
• Restoration after decommissioning
• Schedule
o For the project
o Any time restrictions during ecologically sensitive periods
In addition to the above, the EIA will include the consultation report and technical description. The
layout of the forthcoming EIA is proposed to follow the same structure as this consultation document.
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12.1 Maps
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ml
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metria.nu/data/land/NR.zip
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Consultation document for scoping documentation concerning the construction
and operation of a wind farm in the Baltic Sea, Sweden’s Economic Zone.
24-11-2022
Herkules consultation document
ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Applicant Simply Blue Group
Contact: Magnus Rosenblad
Email:
[email protected]
Telephone: +46(0)768-460026
Address: Simply Blue Management, Storgatan 48, Trollhättan
Consultant Wind Sweden
Contact: Erik Magnusson
Email:
[email protected]
Telephone: +46(0)706–739168
Address: Batterivägen 2, SE-31139 Falkenberg
Author: Stina Brask Bilén & Linnéa Hallgren, Wind Sweden AB
Maps: Linnéa Hallgren, Wind Sweden AB
Quality control: Annie Larsson, Wind Sweden AB, Tove Andersson, Setterwalls Law Firm
Mapping documents are from the websites of relevant authorities including the Land Survey, County Administrative Boards,
Swedish Maritime Administration, Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management.
Herkules consultation document
HERKULES
Simply Blue Group (see applicant/company) intends to apply for the
necessary permits for the construction of an offshore wind farm under the
Swedish Economic Zone Act and the Continental Shelf Act.
The planned wind farm covers an area of approx. 1078 km2 with maximum
121 wind turbines with a maximum total height of 360m to be sited within
the project area. Annual production is expected to be approx 13 TWh.
The planned activities are expected to have a significant environmental
impact. Where activities are expected to involve a significant
environmental impact, the operator must consult on the scope of the
Environmental Impact Assessment. These documents provide the
information required for the scoping consultation and have been designed
to fulfil the requirements of the Environmental Code.
The project area, located approx 60km south east of Gotland, has been
established through a location study based on screening competing
interests, electricity requirements, biological and geological conditions. A
detailed description of the location process can be found in Chapter 2.1.
The consultation documents are based on available information from
mapping, data sources, existing investigations and experience. More
detailed surveys of the ground conditions, natural values, bird life, bats,
marine mammals and marine archaeology will be carried out within the
scope of the forthcoming EIA. Together with the information and
comments from the consultation, the surveys will form the basis of the EIA
prepared for the permit application and for the final implementation and
design of the wind farm.
Herkules consultation document
CONTENTS
1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 Target for wind power and electricity production ................................................................... 1
1.1.1 Electricity demand ........................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Climate benefits ....................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Administrative information ...................................................................................................... 3
1.3.1 Operations ....................................................................................................................... 3
1.3.2 Operators ......................................................................................................................... 3
1.3.3 Consultant........................................................................................................................ 4
1.4 Scope of consultation and legislation ...................................................................................... 4
1.4.1 Authorisation and legislation ........................................................................................... 5
1.4.2 The permit process for the construction and operation of the Herkules wind farm ....... 5
1.4.3 Scoping consultation ........................................................................................................ 6
1.4.4 Scope of consultation ...................................................................................................... 7
2 Location ....................................................................................................................................................................... 9
2.1 Location study.......................................................................................................................... 9
2.1.1 Choice of location .......................................................................................................... 10
2.2 Zero option ............................................................................................................................ 12
3 Description of operations ................................................................................................................................. 13
3.1 Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 14
3.1.1 Accompanying activities ................................................................................................ 14
3.2 Design .................................................................................................................................... 14
3.2.1 Wind turbine .................................................................................................................. 14
3.2.2 Floating foundations ...................................................................................................... 16
3.2.3 Anchoring methods........................................................................................................ 18
3.3 Mains grid .............................................................................................................................. 19
3.3.1 Internal cable network ................................................................................................... 20
3.3.2 Substation ...................................................................................................................... 21
3.3.3 Export cables.................................................................................................................. 22
3.3.4 Site for connection to national grid. .............................................................................. 22
3.4 Facility .................................................................................................................................... 23
3.5 Operation ............................................................................................................................... 23
3.6 Decommissioning................................................................................................................... 23
Herkules consultation document
4 Area description ................................................................................................................................................... 24
4.1 Wind resources ...................................................................................................................... 24
4.2 Planning conditions................................................................................................................ 24
4.2.1 National maritime plan .................................................................................................. 24
4.2.2 HELCOM, Baltic Sea Action Plan..................................................................................... 26
4.2.3 Marine environmental management and environmental quality standards ................. 27
4.3 Overview of nearby wind farm developments ....................................................................... 28
4.4 Existing cables and lines ......................................................................................................... 29
4.5 Depth and marine geology..................................................................................................... 30
4.6 Oceanographic parameters ................................................................................................... 32
4.6.1 Currents & salinity ......................................................................................................... 32
4.6.2 Depth of visibility ........................................................................................................... 34
4.6.3 Oxygen-free seabeds ..................................................................................................... 34
4.6.4 Waves ............................................................................................................................ 35
4.6.5 Ice .................................................................................................................................. 35
4.7 National Interest .................................................................................................................... 36
4.7.1 Chapter 3 Environmental Code ...................................................................................... 36
4.7.2 Chapter 4 Environmental Code ...................................................................................... 38
4.8 Protected areas...................................................................................................................... 38
4.8.1 Natura 2000 ................................................................................................................... 38
4.8.2 Other protected areas ................................................................................................... 40
4.9 Natural environment ............................................................................................................. 41
4.9.1 Demersal plants and animals ......................................................................................... 41
4.9.2 Marine mammals ........................................................................................................... 42
4.9.3 Fish................................................................................................................................. 45
4.9.4 Birds ............................................................................................................................... 45
4.9.5 Bats ................................................................................................................................ 46
4.10 Fishing .................................................................................................................................... 46
4.11 Marine culture value .............................................................................................................. 48
4.12 Outdoor recreation and leisure ............................................................................................. 49
4.13 Mines and dumped ammunition ........................................................................................... 50
4.14 Landscape .............................................................................................................................. 51
4.14.1 Obstruction marking ...................................................................................................... 51
4.14.2 Visibility .......................................................................................................................... 53
5 Impact factors ....................................................................................................................................................... 55
5.1 Sound, underwater sound, operational sound, noise ............................................................ 56
Herkules consultation document
5.2 Turbidity................................................................................................................................. 56
5.3 Landscape .............................................................................................................................. 57
5.4 Increased shipping ................................................................................................................. 57
5.5 Collision risk ........................................................................................................................... 57
5.6 Habitat loss ............................................................................................................................ 57
5.7 New habitats .......................................................................................................................... 57
5.8 Electromagnetic field ............................................................................................................. 57
5.9 Climate, emissions to the air .................................................................................................. 57
5.10 Shadows ................................................................................................................................. 57
6 Protective measures .......................................................................................................................................... 59
7 Potential environmental impacts. ................................................................................................................ 60
7.1 National interest .................................................................................................................... 60
7.2 Protected areas...................................................................................................................... 60
7.3 Natural environment ............................................................................................................. 61
7.3.1 Demersal plants and animals ......................................................................................... 61
7.3.2 Marine mammals ........................................................................................................... 62
7.3.3 Fish................................................................................................................................. 62
7.3.4 Birds ............................................................................................................................... 63
7.3.5 Bats ................................................................................................................................ 63
7.4 Fishing .................................................................................................................................... 63
7.5 Marine culture value .............................................................................................................. 64
7.6 Outdoor recreation and leisure ............................................................................................. 64
7.7 Mines and dumped ammunition ........................................................................................... 64
7.8 Landscape .............................................................................................................................. 65
7.9 Cumulative effects ................................................................................................................. 65
8 Planned investigations ...................................................................................................................................... 66
8.1 Seabed investigations ............................................................................................................ 66
8.2 Natural environment ............................................................................................................. 66
8.3 Cultural heritage .................................................................................................................... 66
8.4 Other surveys......................................................................................................................... 66
9 Risks and safety.................................................................................................................................................... 67
10 Local benefit ........................................................................................................................................................... 67
10.1 Socio-economic benefits ........................................................................................................ 67
10.1.1 Employment................................................................................................................... 67
10.1.2 Technical learning .......................................................................................................... 67
Herkules consultation document
10.1.3 Infrastructure ................................................................................................................. 68
10.1.4 Calculations .................................................................................................................... 68
11 Schedule................................................................................................................................................................... 68
12 Preliminary content of the Environmental Impact Assessment .................................................... 69
13 References .............................................................................................................................................................. 70
13.1 Maps ...................................................................................................................................... 74
ANNEXES
1. Proposed consultation group
Herkules consultation document
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Target for wind power and electricity production
At the start of 2022, the EU Parliament voted to agree a strategy for renewable ocean power. The
strategy laid out the parliament’s recommendations to establish at least 60 GW offshore wind power
by 2030 and 300 GW by 2050. This is the same goal proposed by the European Commission in its 2020
strategy. To achieve the 2030 and 2050 climate goals, more rapid expansion of renewable offshore
energy is required, while marine areas and coastlines must be sustainably managed, as emphasised in
the adopted strategy(Svensk vindenergi, 2022).
Wind power is an important source for Sweden to achieve its energy policy targets. The targets state
that Swedish electricity production should be 100 % fossil fuel free by 2040 1 and that there will be no
net emissions of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere by 2045 (Energimyndigheten, 2021). This target
means that wind power is an important part of the transition to a more ecologically sustainable society.
Only by means of streamlined electricity usage and a move to renewable energy sources with
environmentally acceptable technology will this target be achieved. In 2021, approx 17 % of the
country’s electricity production was from wind power, corresponding to 27.4 TWh(Holmström, 2022).
The demand for electricity is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. In the Swedish
Energy Agency’s long-term scenarios for the energy system, total production from wind power is
estimated to be between 64–156 TWh by 2050 of which offshore wind power will provide 34 TWh
(Energimyndigheten, 2021).
According to the Nationella strategin för en hållbar vindkraftsutbyggnad report, the expansion
requirement for wind power is estimated to be at least 100 TWh by 2040 of which offshore wind power
is estimated at 20 TWh(Energimyndigheten, 2021).
In the recently presented national maritime plan, an area corresponding to an expansion of approx
20–30 TWh has been put forward. At the same time, the Swedish Energy Agency together with other
affected agencies was tasked with highlighting further suitable areas to enable a further 90 TWh
offshore electricity production. This will be reported on by March 2023 and the then the proposal will,
if possible, be worked into the maritime plan and the Maritime and Water Agency will report their
recommendations to the government by December 2024 (Energimyndigheten, 2022).
There are currently three offshore wind farms in the Swedish maritime area: Lillgrund, Bockstigen and
Kårehamn. Three further wind farms have permission, Storgrundet, Kriegers Flak and Kattegatt
Offshore, but none of these permits have yet been used.
1.1.1 Electricity demand
Sweden has four electricity regions. The different electricity regions have different demands and
production which has led to the areas SE1 and SE2 producing more electricity than is used. Areas SE3
and SE4, on the other hand, have an electricity deficit. This means that large quantities of electricity are
transported from north to south Sweden. Transporting electricity requires electricity cables and
1
Government statement by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, 18/10/2022.
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sometimes there is insufficient capacity in the main network to transfer sufficient electricity to the areas
with a deficit. This can mean that electricity consumers in southern Sweden sometimes pay a higher
price than they should compared to those living in northern Sweden(Vattenfall, 2021). The project area
for Herkules is sited outside of SE3 and SE4 and therefore presents an opportunity to contribute to
meeting the ever-increasing demand for renewable energy in a region which even today produces
insufficient electricity to meet demand.
1.2 Climate benefits
70% of the world’s surface is ocean which means that the ocean is important for regulating the climate.
Since 1970, more than 90% of warming has been absorbed by the oceans and since 1990, the rate of
warming has doubled. Of the carbon dioxide released since the start of the industrial revolution in the
1800s, the oceans have absorbed around 40% (Naturskyddsföreningen, 2021). To counteract the
climate change which is the consequence of the world’s oceans warming up, it is necessary to
strengthen access to renewable energy and thus reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
One of the Global Goals, Goal 7: Sustainable energy for all, means that everyone should have access to
sustainable, reliable and renewable energy and clean fuel. This is in order to meet other global
challenges such as poverty, climate change and inclusive growth. Global demand for energy is
simultaneously expected to increase by 37% by 2040. Renewable energy solutions such as wind power
are becoming cheaper, more reliable and more efficient by the day. By investing in renewable energy,
energy services and electricity can be secured for all without damaging the planet. Target 7.2 Increase
global percentage of renewable energy also includes the proportion of renewable energy increasing
significantly by 2030 (Globala målen, 2021a).
Expansion of offshore wind farms involves a large area of ocean which presents questions about the
impact on the marine environment. It is important to both conserve biodiversity locally while
simultaneously contributing to mitigating climate change. These two interests are connected as the
ocean’s species and ecosystem are heavily influenced by climate change. Offshore wind power contrib-
utes to a reduction in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases with the potential to also increase
biodiversity through artificial reefs around the foundations (Bergström, o.a., 2022).
Offshore wind power can be linked to Global Goal 14, Life below water, which aims to conserve and use
marine resources sustainably for sustainable development. A major problem facing oceans today is
acidification. This occurs as a result of increased levels of carbon dioxide in the air mentioned earlier. By
implementing more wind power, carbon dioxide emissions will fall, which in turn reduces acidification
and can be linked to target 14.3: Minimise ocean acidification (Globala målen, 2021b).
In order to achieve the global goals in the fight against climate change, wind power must continue to be
expanded and developed. Electricity production from wind power must increase from the current
27 TWh to at least 100 TWh according to the Energy Agency’s assessment. Since wind farms are becom-
ing ever more important in the work to achieve Sweden’s target and the global goals, new wind turbines
must be built where there are good wind conditions. There are several advantages to siting wind farms
offshore. The best wind conditions are offshore where there are large areas and winds are often
stronger and more even than on land.
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1.3 Administrative information
1.3.1 Operations
Simply Blue Group intends to apply for permission for an offshore wind farm within Sweden’s Economic
Zone. The farm encompasses an area of approx 1,078km2 with up to 121 wind turbines at a maximum
height of 360m, wind measurement masts and substations (OSS).
The wind farm will consist of wind turbines constructed on floating foundations which are anchored to
the seabed. Aside from turbines, offshore substations, wind measurement masts, internal network
cabling on the seabed and export cables to shore will be installed.
1.3.2 Operators
Simply Blue Group (SBG) is a leading developer of sustainable and transformative marine projects. SBG
works with offshore projects which enable society to benefit from blue growth through floating offshore
wind power, wave energy, sustainable fuels and sustainable aquaculture. All in harmony with the ocean
in the fight against the adverse affects of climate change.
SBG was founded in 2011 and its headquarters are in Cork, Ireland. The company has offices in England,
Scotland, Spain, Sweden, USA and Canada with a rapidly growing team of more than 90 employees all
over the world.
Floating offshore wind power is the dominant market segment in SBG’s portfolio. The group has more
than 10 GW floating wind projects in development and the company has grown to a position as one of
the world’s leading floating wind power companies as evidenced by their growing international
presence.
The part of SBG working on the production of biofuels produces green hydrogen, green ammonia,
biofuels, sustainable aviation fuel, methanol and so on from renewable offshore energy. This biofuel
can then be used as “drop in” fuel for aviation, marine transport and chemical production where it is
difficult to transition to renewables. At the same time, it enables existing oil and gas infrastructure to
be reused to move from fossil-based to sustainable fuel production and storage. This makes it possible
to deal with the constraints of the grid infrastructure and variations in renewable energy production
that might otherwise affect the robustness and stability of the grid.
SBG has produced a strategy for Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and aims to evaluate methods for
reducing emissions through Direct Air Capture (DAC). Captured CO2 can either be permanently
sequestered and stored or fed into the production of biofuels.
Operating DAC and biofuel plants during periods of high wind and low demand creates economic
efficiency and sustainable energy production which reduces the risk and dependency on subsidies while
enabling projects to support a robust local supply chain.
SBG has many years’ experience in aquaculture and an ambition to use marine space in the wind farm
for algae farming and other aquaculture. Algae farming has the potential to use CO2, nitrogen and
phosphorous in the sea and produce oxygen. This creates effective artificial habitats which have the
potential to support fish populations by providing food and protection. Harvested algae can be used for
biofuel production, biodynamic fertilisers and, if water conditions are good, so-called “superfoods”.
In order to minimise the environmental impact, utilise the marine area to improve sea water quality and
create a basis to transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources, all three business areas are assessed
in parallel when SBG develops their wind farms. This creates new economic opportunities for coastal
communities and ensures projects co-exist with sustainable fishing, improvements in marine environ-
ments and support for local industry through the transition.
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1.3.3 Consultant
Wind Sweden AB is the lead consultant with responsibility for leading the project and drawing up the
consultation document. Wind Sweden has broad knowledge of the branch and specialist competence
within development, implementation and operation of renewable energy production plants. The
company also has reliable competence within offshore wind power and is responsible for the
development of the Kattegatt Offshore wind farm outside of Falkenberg.
1.4 Scope of consultation and legislation
These consultation documents relate to an assessment of permission for the installation and operation
of the Herkules wind farm, including related activities such as substations and the internal cable
network. Several different types of permit are required, which are examined by various bodies at
different stages. Table 1 following includes a summary of the main permits required for installation, with
those intended to be applied for at a later stage and therefore not covered by this consultation
specifically highlighted in yellow.
Table 1. Main permits for establishing and operating Herkules. Permits highlighted in yellow are not included in these consulta-
tion documents since they are intended to be applied for at a later date.
Activity Area Permit Agency When
Permit for the installa-
tion and operation of a
wind farm in Sweden’s
This consultation
Wind power instal- economic zone (§5 of
Economic zone Government with additional ap-
lation the Act on Sweden’s
plication
Economic Zone
(1992:1140).
Permit for laying under-
sea internal cables §3
This consultation
Internal cable net- and § 2 b of the
Continental shelf Government with additional sep-
work Swedish Continental
arate application
Shelf Act CSA
(1966:314)).
Separate applica-
Seabed surveys Continental shelf Survey permit ( § 3 CSA) SGU tion in several
stages
Permit for laying export
Separate applica-
Export cable Continental shelf cables (§ 3 and § 2 b Government
tion
CSA).
Permit for water-related
Land and Envi-
works and required
ronmental Separate applica-
Export cable Territorial waters measures onshore
Court of Ap- tion
(Chap. 11 of the Environ-
peal
mental Code).
Connection point Authorisation for con-
Energy market Separate applica-
Grid connection to be determined nection to the main grid
inspectorate tion
at a later stage under Electricity Act.
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1.4.1 Authorisation and legislation
Permit for construction and operation of the wind farm
Construction and operation of the planned wind farm and associated facilities, including substations
and internal cable networks (ancillary activities require a permit from the government under § 5 of the
Act (1992:1140) on Sweden’s Exclusive Economic Zone (LSEZ).
In a permit assessment under LSEZ, certain rules in the Environmental Code (1998:808) (EC) apply,
including Chapters 2-4 and Chapter 5. §§ 3-5 and § 18 along with relevant regulations in Chapter 6
pursuant to § 6 LSEZ. A specific environmental assessment will be conducted and an Environmental
Impact Assessment (EAI) will be produced pursuant to § 6 a LSEZ.
Permit for laying submarine internal cables.
The wind farm will be connected by cables which form the so-called internal cable network within the
farm area. Laying submarine cables for the internal cable network on the continental shelf requires a
permit under § 3 and § 2 b of the Continental Shelf Act (SFS 1966:314) (CSA) subject to governmental
review. The company intends to apply for such a permit in connection with the permit application for
the wind farm. In a permit assessment under CSA certain rules in the Environmental Code (EC) apply,
including Chapters 2 and Chapter 5. §§ 3-5 EC. For measures involving drilling or blasting, the relevant
provisions in Chapter 6 of the EC under § 3 of CSA apply. Where appropriate, a specific environmental
assessment will be conducted and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EAI) will be produced.
Survey permit
For preparatory geological and biological seabed surveys a survey permit is required under § 3 CSA.
Once permission is granted for the wind farm, further more detailed surveys may need to be conducted
in order to design the wind farm in detail. The provisions set out in the EC in the section above on
permits for the laying of internal submarine cables apply.
1.4.2 The permit process for the construction and operation of the Herkules wind
farm
The permit process for the Herkules wind farm begins with a consultation and investigation stage in
which the applicants consult with agencies, organisations, the general public and those with a special
interest under Chapter 6. of the EC. During this consultation period, the applicants receive input and
information from all stakeholders. This input and the information received then informs which surveys
will be conducted, which material is presented and which aspects go into the EIA.
The consultation begins with Gotland County Administrative Board and Region. This is in a written
consultation with the proposed consultation group, see Annex 1.
Public consultation is proposed to take the form of a face-to-face meeting where attendees have the
opportunity to raise issues and comments. Following the consultation meeting, there will be a further
opportunity to submit comments to the operator within 3 weeks. The consultation will be announced
in the press, with information on where to find information about the project and how to submit
comments.
Following consultation with agencies, organisations, the general public and those with a special interest
an EIA will be produced.
The permit process is shown in the schematic below.
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Figure 1. Schematic of the permit process. Förstudie – Feasibility studies; Samrådsunderlag – Scoping report; Avgränsnings-
samråd och miljöbedömning – Public consultation and impact assessment; MKB och ansökan tas fram –EIA report and permit
application development; Tillståndsansökan lämnas in – Submission of the permit application; Handläggning – Processing of
the permit; Eventuell komplettering – Any additional documentation; Prövning -Permit examination; Beslut om tillstånd och
villkor – Decision on permit and permit conditions; Genomförande av verksamhet och kontrollprogram – Project realisation
and monitoring program; Idrifttagande och kontrollprogram – Operation and monitoring program continuation.
1.4.3 Scoping consultation
This consultation document has been prepared as a basis for scoping consultations in accordance with
Chapter 6 §§ 29-32 of the EC. Survey consultation in accordance with Chapter 6 §§ 23-25 of the EC has
not been conducted as it is only relevant if significant environmental impacts2 cannot be predicted in
advance.
A scoping consultation under the provisions in Chapter 6 § 30 of the EC and consultations will be
consulted with the County Council, supervisory authority and individuals likely to be particularly affected
by the operations. In addition, consultation will be conducted with other government agencies,
municipalities and the public who may be affected by the planned operations.
A scoping consultation aims to inform agencies, individuals and the public, about the planned project’s
location and give a comprehensive account of the potential environmental impact of the planned
activities. Consultation documents will contain information on:
• Design and scope of operations
• Location of operations
• Environmental sensitivities in the affected area
• Aspects of the environment which can be assumed to be significantly affected
2
According to Section 6 of the Environmental Assessment Act (2017:966) a wind farm requiring a permit must
always be assumed to have a significant environmental impact in accordance with Chapter 6 § 20 of the first part
of section 2 of the Environmental Code.
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• The environmental affects likely to result from the operations or external events, to the extent
such information is available.
• The assessment conducted by the applicant as to whether or not the operations have
a significant impact on the environment.
The consultation document shall also provide examples of appropriate protection measures. The con-
sultation document shall include information on all aspects of the project, the construction phase, op-
erational phase and decommissioning phase. The purpose of a scoping consultation is also to provide
the applicant with guidance from the County Administrative Board which will work to ensure that the
content of the forthcoming EIA contains the scope and detail required for an assessment.
1.4.4 Scope of consultation
Substantive limitations
This consultation document relates to the permit application for wind power installation under the LSEZ,
including related operations such as substations and internal cable network. Permission for the internal
cable network under the CSA, also part of this consultation, is applied for at the same step as the permit
under LSEZ.
Further permits are considered separately and are therefore not covered by this consultation docu-
ment. The power connection point to the overhead network has not yet been determined but will be
surveyed at a later stage and coordinated with Svenska kraftnät. The consultation document therefore
does not cover the laying of export cables according to §§ 2b - 3 CSA. The consultation also does not
cover permits under Chapter 11 of the EC for laying cables in territorial waters or other permits required
under the EC or other relevant legislation for onshore measures, for example. Permits required for these
will be applied for at a later stage.
Connection of the wind farm to the transmission grid and the construction of an electrical power line
in accordance with the Electricity Act (1997:857) is a separate authorisation process, known as a grid
concession for a line, and is not covered by this consultation.
Since the project may have an impact across borders, separate consultations will be held with
neighbouring countries and information provided in accordance with Chapter 6 of § 33 EC to satisfy
the requirements of the provisions on transboundary consultation in the EIA directive and on the
Environmental Impact Assessment in a transboundary context under the Espoo Convention. The
Swedish Environmental Protection Agency is responsible for conducting the procedure with other
countries under the EC and Espoo Convention, see Chapter 6. 33 EC and § 21 Environmental
Assessment Regulation (2017:966).
The consultation process is limited to that which includes the construction phase, operational phase
and decommissioning phase for the Herkules wind farm and related infrastructure. This includes the
wind turbines and their foundations, measuring masts, internal cable network and substations.
This consultation process also gives an overview of what the forthcoming EIA will contain along with
which environmental impact will be further investigated.
Geographical scope
The geographical scope for the consultation and environmental assessment is based on the area cov-
ered by the project as well as the surrounding area which may be impacted by the operations in the
application, i.e.,the survey area. The geographical scope for the survey area varies due to respective
factors.
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Time limitations
Consultation for the Herkules wind farm will be conducted between autumn 2022 and spring 2023.
A comprehensive EIA with related surveys is expected to begin after the consultation.
Definition of the scope of consultation
Stakeholders identified for inclusion in the consultation are listed in Annex 1.
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2 LOCATION
According to the code of conduct in Chapter 2 of the Environmental Code, a site must be chosen for an
activity or measure that is suitable both in terms of its purpose and in terms of human health and the
environment. The location principle (Chapter 2 § 6 environmental code) is extremely important for new
installations. It is therefore particularly important to highlight how the location principle has been
observed in the environmental impact assessment in a permit evaluation. The location principle
(Chapter. 2 § 6 environmental code, involves activities or measures being placed in a location where the
end goal of the activity or measure can be achieved with minimum intrusion and nuisance to human
health and the environment. Intrusion and nuisance to human health in the location principle means
anything which contradicts the aim of the environmental code. Sometimes several locations may be
suitable for an activity. In such cases, the best of these locations is chosen (prop. 1997/98:45 part 1, p.
218 ff)., i.e. the location which causes least intrusion or nuisance to human health and the environment
(Naturvårdsverket, 2022a).
A recent report from Vindval aimed to investigate the possibility for large scale, sustainable expansion
of wind power in Swedish waters in the Baltic Sea while also acting as a guidance document (Isæus,
Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022). The report is based on both industry
preferences, i.e., wind power producers, and the assessed impact on species at the population level.
The outcome of the report shows that offshore wind power with floating foundations is broadly possible
in all parts of the Baltic Sea. In general, floating foundations are expected to have lower impact on
marine organisms than fixed foundations since they located in deeper areas with lower biodiversity.
Areas with deep, dead seabeds where the impact is expected to be particularly low, are particularly
suitable for wind power developments.
The choice of project area for the Herkules wind farm has been based on a location study. Chapter
2.1.1explains how the location of the operation has been chosen and why.
2.1 Location study
The forthcoming EIA includes a description of the location study and the choice of the design of the
farm. It will also include an explanation of alternative.
Along with this consultation document, a location study has been conducted with help of the QGIS
programme, in which information on conflicting interests and other available information has been
studied.
The area which has been analysed is the Swedish waters in the Baltic Sea between Stockholm and
Malmö. The aim of the analysis was to identify areas suitable for development of an offshore wind farm
with regards conflicting interests, environmental impact, distance to shore, wind resource, power
requirements and technical conditions.
The first step in the location survey was to exclude conflicting interests which could been heavily
impacted by an offshore wind farm development and therefore would be avoided if at all possible. In
the second step, an area 7 km from the coastline was removed from the available area to maintain
distance from the mainland and reduce visual impact. In the third step, areas were identified which
were suitable for an offshore wind farm development with sufficient water depth for floating
foundations. In the final step, areas were chosen which had sufficient production capacity.
A summary of the different steps can be seen below in Table 2.
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Table 2. Summary of location surveys.
Step Parameters
National park
Nature reserve
Natura 2000 area
1
Armed forces
Waterways
National commercial fishing interest
2 Distance from shore
3 Identify areas suitable for floating foundations based on ocean depth
4 Identify areas with sufficiently large production capacity
In order to then choose the final project area, further parameters were investigated to choose the most
suitable area. A summary can be seen below in Table 3.
Table 3. Overview of further parameters which influence the choice of location.
Parameter Explanation
Electricity demand SE3 and SE4 - electricity is needed in these electricity areas
National interest Areas of national interest have been avoided
National maritime plan Recommendations for use of land areas follow
Good wind conditions At least 8m/s average wind speed
Porpoises Adaptations have been made in areas frequented by porpoises
Aviation Areas of conflict have been avoided
Mines and dumped ammunition Have been avoided
Ice Areas with high risk of ice have been avoided
2.1.1 Choice of location
The project area for Herkules lies within Sweden’s Economic Zone, south east of Gotland covering an
area of 1,078km2, see Figure 2.
The fact that the planned operations is located close to the electricity areas SE3 and SE4 is considered
a positive aspect since these areas have a power deficit.
The area is judged to have favourable conditions for an offshore wind farm with winds between 9.7m/s
and 9.8m/s at 150m above sea level. Ocean depth varies between approx. 107 m and 224 m and the
material on the seabed is predominantly hard mud and clay.
No national interests are found in the project area and the planned operations have few conflicting
interests.
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Figure 2. Overview of location and corner coordinates for the project area. Projetkområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens
yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Hörnkoordinater – Corner
coordinates.
The choice of project area for Herkules coincides with a non-restricted area meaning areas with existing site
protection (national parks, Natura 2000 sites and nature reserves) are not found within the project area.
Map, Figure 3, includes existing environmental protection as well as restricted areas and unsuitable
areas according to Vindval’s report Ecologically sustainable wind power in the Baltic Sea (Isæus, Beltrán,
Stensland Isæus, Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022).
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Figure 3. Restricted areas and areas with existing environmental protection (national parks, Natura 2000 areas and nature
reserves) (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens
yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Befintligt områdesskydd
– Existing protection area; Begränsning under peak torsklek – Restricted areas during cod spawning; Begränsning max utby-
ggnad 20% - Restricted areas where only 20% of are can be exploited ; Olämpligt område – Invalid area for development;
Öleämpligt område sommar – Invalid area for development in summer; Hänsynzon – Area of consideration.
2.2 Zero option
The zero option describes a situation where no wind farm is installed within the planned area. A detailed
presentation of the zero option will be included in the forthcoming EIA. This will include the assessed
environmental impact as a result of the alternative in the application in relation to the zero option.
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3 DESCRIPTION OF OPERATIONS
Offshore wind power is considered to have great potential in respect to electricity production in both
Swedish waters and globally. This is because winds at sea are both strong and even. Data from existing
wind farms in the North Sea show that 91% of the time it is sufficiently windy to produce renewable
energy (Ørsted, u.d.). The development of Herkules wind farm will contribute approximately
12.7 TWh/year of renewable energy.
Figure 4. Average values of how often an offshore farm can produce renewable energy. Data based on North Sea wind farms
(Ørsted, u.d.).
Construction for the Herkules wind farm will begin following receipt of permits, it is currently difficult
to determine which model or height of wind turbines will be optimal at the time of development. This
is predominantly due to the constant rapid technological development of wind turbines. Hence the
consultation document includes a maximum total height and maximum number of wind turbines for
the project area. This also applies to the choice of floating foundation and anchoring methods and
therefore several alternative methods are presented in the consultation document. This favours the
application of the principle of best available techniques. The forthcoming EIA intends to describe
potential environmental impacts based on alternative scenarios which allow for flexibility in the choice
of technology.
The company intends to apply for authorisation for construction and operation of a wind farm with free
placement of wind turbines within a geographically defined area, as per the usual procedure for offshore
wind power. The positions of the wind turbines will be determined before construction with regard to
the best technology available at the time.
Based on the project area, an example design has been developed by the company with the maximum
number of wind turbines allowed, see Figure 6. An example turbine is used for the example design of
the wind farm and calculations, the dimensions of which can be seen in Table 4, chapter 3.2.1. The
example design is only to be seen as an idea of how the planned wind farm may look. The final design
of the wind farm in terms of wind turbines, positions, rotor size and total height will be determined at
a later stage.
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3.1 Scope
Herkules is planned to be designed with up to 121 wind turbines which currently gives a total installed
capacity of approx. 2.4 GW with an expected annual production of approx. 12.7 TWh.
The wind farm consists of wind turbines with foundations and an internal cable network which connects
all of the turbines and their substations (OSS). The wind turbines will be anchored with floating
foundations meaning that the wind turbines float and are moored to the seabed.
3.1.1 Accompanying activities
An export cable (marine cable) is a requirement for the wind turbines to be connected to the grid
infrastructure. As a result, an export cable will be constructed from the wind farm's substations, either
to land or to one of the offshore connection points proposed by Svenska kraftnät on the border between
the territorial waters boundary and the SEZ. Should the applicant intend to lay a marine cable towards
land, this will be constructed all the way to the beach. At the shoreline, the marine cable will be coupled
with a land cable which will continue further to a suitable connection point to the Swedish transmission
grid. Alternatively, a connection to another country may be required, such as where the Swedish grid
does not have capacity to receive the additional energy.
3.2 Design
3.2.1 Wind turbine
As the permit process for offshore wind assessment takes time, the time from project launch to
construction phase can sometimes be as long as 8-10 years. Technological development within wind
power, on the other hand, is rapid, meaning it is impossible to know which technology will be the best
available on the day the project is realised.
Currently available technology will be further developed both with regards efficiency and height of wind
turbines. The current trend is for higher and more efficient turbines and today there are wind turbines
with outputs of 15 MW (Vestas, u.d.). If this trend continues at the same pace, we will see turbines with
outputs around 20MW within the next decade.
The total height of a wind turbine is determined by the rotor diameter as well as clearance between the
water surface and the tip of the rotor blade. Clearance will be between 21 - 35 m for this project. The
installed output for wind turbines for the project is expected to be approx. 20 MW. The maximum total
height applied for is thus 360 m, see Table 5. An exact number, dimensions and model will be
determined in the final contract and detailed projections of the site. Therefore, exact figures cannot be
provided at this stage.
Table 4 below lists an alternative design, which can be seen in Figure 6, and a scenario with the
maximum dimensions, see Table 5.
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Figure 5. Schematic of example. Frigång – Clearance; Totalhöjd – Total height.
Figure 6. Example design for Herkules based on dimensions in Table 4. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre
gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
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Table 4. Example design of wind farm. RD=Rotor diameter.
Example design
Number of wind turbines 121
Output per wind turbine [MW] 20
Total installed output [MW] 2,420
Clearance [m] 35
Rotor diameter [m] 290
Total height [m] 325
Approximate distance between turbines [RD]
6 / 13
Within rows / Between rows
Calculated production capacity [TWh/yr] 12.72
Table 5. Maximum dimensions applied for:
Scope of application Number of wind turbines Total height [m]
Maximum 121 360
For this evaluation and the forthcoming EIA, the maximum number of turbines and total height are
dimensioned. Further design alternatives within the framework of the maximum number of wind
turbines and maximum total height applied for will be surveyed.
The final design will be based on the forthcoming seabed surveys and information received during
consultations and will be determined once permission is obtained.
3.2.2 Floating foundations
With regards the depth within the Herkules project area, the installation is intended to use floating
foundations. Floating foundations use buoyancy to support the wind turbines and are anchored to the
seabed. The choice of which type of floating foundation to use depends on several parameters, including
the nature of the seabed, wind conditions and the size of turbines. The design will be analysed at a later
step to optimise electricity production and economy as well as minimising the negative impact on the
environment.
The main types of floating foundation currently on the market can be categorised into three groups
depending on the type of mechanism used for stability. These three are as follows:
Stabilised with ballast
Ballast at the bottom of the floating construction moves the centre of gravity to below the centre of
buoyancy. This means the construction stays upright and counters movements which unbalance the
construction. An example of floating foundations with this technology is SPAR.
Stabilised with buoyancy
In this case, the water surface is the main element for maintaining the construction’s stability. Stability
is achieved by either having one large pontoon or several smaller pontoons a distance from the centre
of the construction. An example of floating foundations with this construction are barge and
semi-submersible. The main difference between these two types is that semi-submersible has distrib-
uted buoyancy and consists of pontoons connected by arms while barge consists of one flat floating
element with no space between.
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Stabilised through anchoring to the seabed
This technology relies on lines which are anchored to the seabed under tension and that they can thus
stabilise the construction. The volume of water displaced by the construction of the wind turbine must
be large enough to create extra buoyancy so that the anchoring lines are always under tension. An
example of floating foundation which uses this type of mechanism is Tension Leg Platform
(TLP)(Leimeister, Kolios, & Collu, 2018).
A summary of the advantages and disadvantages for three of the floating foundations named above can
be seen below in Table 6.
Table 6. Summary of the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of floating foundation (IRENA, 2016) & (Du,
2021).
Types of floating founda-
Advantages Disadvantages
tion
- Simple design compared to semi-sub-
mersible and TLP - Requires greater depth (>100m)
- Lower installation and anchoring - Wind turbines cannot be installed
SPAR
costs than TLP in port but rather are installed in
- More stable than semi-submersible situ
due to depth of design
- Easier to construct and transport
than SPAR and TLP
- Wind turbines can be installed in port
- Least stable of the three different
and then the whole construction can
structures
Semi-submersible be transported to be positioned
- Complex and larger construction
- Can be used for a broad spectrum of
compared to the other alternatives
water depths, usually from 40m
- Lower installation and anchoring
costs compared to TLP
- Difficult to maintain stability dur-
- The most stable construction of these ing transport and installation
three types - Depending on the design may
- Smaller structure and therefore lower need a specially designed vessel for
material costs installation
Tension leg platform (TLP) - Wind turbines can be installed in port - Higher installation and anchoring
and then the whole construction can costs compared to SPAR and semi-
be transported to be positioned submersible
- Can be used for a broad spectrum of - Can be affected by high frequency
water depths, usually from 40m dynamic loads due to the construc-
tion’s rigidity.
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Figure 7. Illustration of the current main models of floating foundations.
3.2.3 Anchoring methods
All of the types of foundation described in Chapter 3.2.2 require anchoring to the seabed. Which type
of anchoring method is appropriate depends on the nature of the seabed and sediment in the area and
therefore the choice will be based on the seabed survey which will be conducted at a later stage.
Tension of the lines between the foundation and anchoring also depends on the type of foundation and
anchoring method. Which tension is used affects how much the foundation can move on the surface.
The final anchoring method will be determined at a later stage.
A summary of some of the most common current anchoring methods is described below in Table 7.
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Table 7. Summary of anchoring methods(Castillo, 2020) & (Vryh of Anchors BV, 2010).
Anchoring method Information Advantages Disadvantages
- Made of steel or
concrete
- Holding force created - Can be installed in a
from the weight of the wide range of types of - Material intensive
anchorage and friction seabed production
Gravity anchor
against the seabed - Can manage both - Difficult to remove after
(Gravity anchor) material vertical and horizontal decommissioning of a
- Manages vertical loads loads wind farm
through its weight and - Low cost
horizontal loads with
friction on the seabed
- Cylinders - Can be installed in a - Generates a lot of
- Holding force is wide range of types of underwater noise during
Piles created through friction seabed installations
(Piles) between the cylinders - Can manage both - Difficult to remove after
and ground vertical and horizontal decommissioning of a
- Piles are buried loads wind farm
- Can manage both
vertical and horizontal
- Another type of loads
anchoring with piles - Low installation costs
- Larger diameter - Easy to remove and can - Can be used on a limited
Suction pile compared to piles be reused range of seabeds Used on
(suction pile) - The piles are hollow - Low noise during clay soils
and a pump creates a installation compared to
vacuum to anchor the piles
pile during installation - Can be removed after
decommissioning of a
wind farm
- Can resist high levels of - Can only handle
horizontal movement horizontal loads. There are
Drag embedment - Made of steel with a
- High loading capacity in certain types which can
anchor triangular construction
relation to its weight resist vertical movements.
(drag embedment at the base which forms
capacity for anchoring - Can be removed after - Can be used on a limited
anchor)
decommissioning of a range of seabeds Best
wind farm suited to sandy soils
3.3 Mains grid
The electricity transmission for a wind farm can be divided into several parts. The internal cable network,
substations (OSS) and export cable. Electricity is transmitted from each wind turbine to a substation via
the internal cable system. The substation transforms the electricity to a higher voltage before it is
transmitted further via the export cable. In some cases several substations and export cables are
required.
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Figure 8. Schematic of the different parts of an offshore wind farm.
3.3.1 Internal cable network
Within the wind farm area, a number of cables will be laid to connect the wind turbines to each other,
the so-called internal cable network. This network is important for communication between wind
turbines and transmission of the electricity produced. It is also importance for operational monitoring
and load control.
The internal cables have a dynamic part which moves with the floating foundation and therefore needs
a high level of flexibility and strength to be able to handle the impact of waves and currents, for example.
Usually, the cable is constructed used the “lazy wave” method where buoyancy modules are added to
reduce the load on the cable, see Figure 9. Either only dynamic cables or a combination of dynamic and
static cables can be used but this requires the addition of a connection point between the two types
(Lerch, De-Prada-Gil, & Molins, 2021).
The internal cable network is then connected to one or more offshore substations (OSS). These stations
transform the electricity produced by the wind turbines to a high voltage to reduce loss of electricity
during transmission via export cables.
The preferred method of protection for the internal cable network, with regard to the static parts, will
be by burying them. In those places where this method is unsuitable due to, for example, cables crossing
each other or unsuitable seabed material, a different method will be used. Alternative methods for
protecting the cables can be to cover them with stones, concrete mattresses, concrete, artificial
seaweed mats 3 or sandbags.
3
Anti-Scour Frond Mattress:
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Figure 9. Schematic of the internal cable network
3.3.2 Substation
A substation tower with transformer room is built on the foundation for the substation. Within the
transformer room the voltage from the wind farm is increased before it is transmitted via the export
cable. This reduces power loss to the transmission grid. The number of substations and their positioning
depends on the final placement of the export cable. The export cable’s exact route has not yet been
determined.
Depending on the actual depth of the location of the substation, it may be appropriate to anchor with
either so-called jacket-foundations, see Figure 10, or floating foundations with anchoring, see Chapter
3.2. However, other types of foundation may also be appropriate.
Jacket foundations consist of a stable truss structure of steel tubes/beams anchored to the base. This
construction is suitable for deeper waters and high loads.
Jacket foundations are secured to the base with either so-called suction buckets or smaller steel pipes
which are bored or piled into the seabed. Suction buckets are steel or concrete cylinders which use a
vacuum to suction to the seabed. Some preparation of the seabed may be needed for the installation
of substations. Large rocks may need to be moved and depending on the choice of anchoring methods,
the seabed may need levelling. The final choice of technology will depend on the seabed situation on
site. Erosion protection is usually laid around the foundation consisting of a lower layer of gravel and
upper layer of stones of various sizes.
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Figure 10. Schematic of a jacket foundation.
3.3.3 Export cables
The electricity produced by a wind farm is transmitted via substations to the transmission grid or
regional grid. An export cable (marine cable) will be constructed either leading to land or to one of the
offshore connection points proposed by Svenska kraftnät at the boundary or territorial waters and the
SEZ. Alternatively, it may be possible for the export cable to lead abroad.
Should the applicant intend to lay a marine cable towards land, this will be constructed all the way to
the beach from the SEZ via territorial waters. At the shoreline, the marine cable will be coupled with a
land cable which will continue further to a suitable connection point to the Swedish transmission grid
or regional network on land.
As with the internal cable network, the export cable must be protected from damage either by burying
in trenches or covering with blocks, depending on the seabed conditions.
The exact route and size of the cable will be determined later in the design process, where conflicting
interests and technical conditions will be taken into account.
3.3.4 Site for connection to national grid.
On 1st January 2022, the government asked Svenska kraftnät to evaluate how Svenska kraftnät could
extend the transmission network to areas within Sweden marine territory where there is potential to
connect several power generation plants. Report published 15th June 2022. Grid development will
support Sweden to achieve its renewable energy production targets. The government considers that
offshore electricity production has the potential to contribute to achieving the target for renewable
electricity production by 2040, partly by meeting increased demand for electricity in the future. The
government further considers that it is important that the development of offshore wind power occurs
in such a way as to ensure the greatest possible benefit as cost effectively as possible and that offshore
wind is able to contribute large volumes of electricity and high efficiency.
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Svenska kraftnät has proposed that the expansion of the grid within Sweden’s sea territory be organised
in calls for tenders for offshore connection points on the border between territorial waters and
Sweden’s economic zone. The first round includes a total of six prioritised areas of water for expanding
the network: Skåne’s south coast, Halland coast, the south east Baltic Sea, the north Western Sea, the
south Bothnian Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia(SvK, 2022).
In terms of Herkules, the onshore connection point for the south east Baltic Sea is probably not the most
cost-effective solution and the project will therefore confirm the connection point later in the
development phase when Svenska Kraftnät announces new proposed connection points in 2025.
3.4 Facility
The wind farm facility consists of different phases, the first of which is to prepare the site. This includes
preparation of the seabed, pre-installation of electricity cables and anchoring systems.
Since the farm will be installed with floating foundations, the installation process will be somewhat
different from solid foundations. The majority of the floating foundations on the market currently can
be constructed in harbour and then towed out to site to be moored to the pre-installed anchors and
cables. However, the development of offshore construction vessels is progressing, which may change
how the process looks in the future.
3.5 Operation
Operation of the wind farm and monitoring of substations takes place remotely via an operation centre.
Regular maintenance and repairs will need to be carried out during operational times and will involve
transporting materials and staff on a service vessel or helicopter. The operation and service centre will
be sited onshore near to the wind farm. Floating foundations have the advantage that they can be towed
to harbour for repair and maintenance.
3.6 Decommissioning
The lifetime of wind farms is currently expected to be between 30 - 35 years after commissioning.
Following that, the farm will be decommissioned and dismantled in the reverse order to installation.
That means that the wind farm will be decoupled from cables and anchoring and then towed to harbour
for dismantling. In the event that removal of parts of the wind farm and cables leave a greater
environmental impact than leaving them in situ, this will be preferred. The dismantling and recovery
plan will be developed in consultation with the supervisory authority.
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4 AREA DESCRIPTION
The following chapter describes the area intended for the planned Herkules wind farm.
4.1 Wind resources
Wind conditions for the project area have been initially evaluated using available wind data from Global
Wind Atlas(Global Wind Atlas, u.d.) and a wind rose produced with available wind data (ERA5). At 150
meters above sea level, average wind speeds are between 9.7m/s and 9.8m/s in the project area. (Global
Wind Atlas, u.d.). Prevailing winds are south westerly, see Figure 11.
Before the final design of the wind power development is determined, wind measurements will be taken
in the area which will form the basis of the final design of the wind farm.
Figure 11. Overview of the wind resources for the project area at 150m above sea level and the prevailing wind direction at
100 metres above sea level (Global Wind Atlas.). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclu-
sive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
4.2 Planning conditions
This chapter describes the planning conditions which influence the project area.
4.2.1 National maritime plan
The Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management has produced three different marine plans,
one for the Gulf of Bothnia, one for the Baltic Sea and one for the Western Sea, with the aim of
contributing to a long-term sustainable development. The marine plan is not binding but is intended to
be guidance around how the ocean can be used in the best way and act as a guide for national
authorities, municipalities and courts in the coming decisions, planning and authorisation process. This
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will also contribute to creating the conditions for Sweden’s future need to generate renewable energy
including the expansion of wind power.
In the plans, relatively few areas for energy generation relating to wind power have been identified
which are not considered sufficient to achieve the national target. However, the permit application to
develop wind power was made in areas which were not identified specifically for that purpose.
The Swedish Energy Agency considers that at least 100 TWh renewable electricity production must be
installed in Sweden by 2040-2045 in order to be able to achieve the goal of 100% renewable electricity
production. The Agency expects the offshore plan to allow for about 50 TWh of offshore wind power.
The areas identified for energy generation in the marine plan, however, only enable a total of between
23 TWh and 31 TWh of annual electricity production possible, depending on what proportion of the
areas can be used, considering other interests. Therefore, the Swedish Energy Agency together with
other affected agencies was tasked with highlighting further suitable areas to enable a further 90 TWh
offshore electricity production. This will be reported on by March 2023 and the then the proposal will,
if possible, be worked into the maritime plan and the Maritime and Water Agency will report their
recommendations to the government by December 2024 (Energimyndigheten, 2022).
According to the zoning of the marine plan, the planned wind power development Herkules, is located
within the Baltic Sea area. Within this area there are good technical conditions for offshore energy
generation. However, high natural values have been identified in the marine plan are which may affect
future wind power installations. Within the marine plan area, there are also extensive defensive
interests which mean that wind power is not suitable in several areas according to the Maritime and
Water Agency’s evaluation. In the overall assessment for wind power in the Baltic Sea marine plan, these
parameters have been taken into account as well as negative effects on long-tailed duck populations.
The Herkules project area is predominantly located within the area of the south east Baltic Sea but the
northern point is within the area for the Central Baltic Sea, see Figure 12. The marine plan shows that
there are good conditions for energy generation and that the demand for electricity is high due to the
high consumption in southern Sweden (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2022a).
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Figure 12. The national marine plan showing which areas that affect the Herkules project area (Maritime and Water Agency,
2022). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns
– Territorial waters boarders; Havsplanen – Maritime plan; Havsområde – Sea area; ID-nummer – ID number; Anvädningar –
Uses; Försvar – National Defence; Generel användning – General uses; Natur – Nature; Sjöfart – Ferry routes; Utredningsområde
sjöfart – Area considered for the ferry routes; Särskild hänsyn till höga naturvärden – Significant importance for nature.
A run-through of the various areas follows in order to clarify which interests are considered important
in the area of the marine plan where the project area is located.
Area G Ö232
In the Central Baltic Sea, there are several shipping lanes and several of these pass through the area of
Ö232. In addition to shipping, the area also includes general use and commercial fishing. No preference
or special adaptation for coexistence is indicated for the area (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2022a).
Area G Ö244
In the south east Baltic Sea there is extensive traffic both to foreign and Swedish ports which means that
shipping is important in this area. South and east of Gotland, it is predominantly traffic to and from the Gulf
of Finland and the Baltic. These connect to the deep-water route, adjacent to the project area, southeast of
Gotland in the Swedish economic zone and which is of substantial public interest. In addition to shipping, the
area also includes general use, commercial fishing and electricity transmission. When nature and energy
generation are in opposition to one another, nature takes precedence in the area according to the
assessment of the Maritime and Water Agency (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2022a).
4.2.2 HELCOM, Baltic Sea Action Plan
To protect the Baltic Sea’s marine environment, the countries with a Baltic coastline have a shared
agreement. Work to improve the Baltic Sea’s condition is organised by HELCOM, which consists of
representatives from the different countries which are signatories to the Helsinki Convention. This
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convention is a regional environmental convention which addresses issues such as eutrophication, the
spread of environmentally hazardous substances and the protection and conservation of marine
biodiversity(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, u.d.).
HELCOM’s work is directed by the Baltic Sea Action Plan (BSAP) which is a programme put forward by
representatives within the convention, to restore the good ecological status of the Baltic Sea’s marine
environment(WISE Marine, u.d.).
In the latest BSAP from 2021, it was raised that HELCOM sees the need to develop offshore wind to be
able to achieve the climate goals for 2030 and 2050. They also establish that steps should be taken to
expand sustainable with respect for their commitments to biodiversity and a healthy marine
environment (HELCOM, 2021).
4.2.3 Marine environmental management and environmental quality standards
The Marine Environment Directive was adopted by the EU in 2008 and into Swedish law in 2010 via the
Marine Environment Regulation, which follows the content of the EU Directive. The Marine
Environment Directive aims to achieve or maintain a good environmental status in Europe’s waters and
the directive was introduced into Swedish law through Chapter 5 of the Environmental Code and in the
Marine Environment Regulation (2010:1341) and the Marine and Water Agency’s regulations HVMFS
2012:18. The Marine Environment Regulation states that marine environmental management shall
ensure that good environmental status is maintained or achieved in the North Sea and Baltic Sea. The
management includes developing environmental quality standards (EQS) with various indicators to
assess whether good environmental status is being maintained or achieved, developing and
implementing a programme to monitor compliance with the EQS and describing the measures to be
taken to maintain or achieve a good environmental status. 11 Swedish EQS have been determined as a
tool to achieve good environmental status.
EQS determines the quality of the water, land, air and environment in general. This is regulated by the
environmental code. The standards should protect human health and the environment. There are
currently EQS for noise, air and water. The standards can be designed in different ways. Some provide
clear limits while others represent target standards to work towards.
EQS for water includes lakes, rivers, coastal waters and ground water. An environmental quality
standard for water describes the quality a body of water should have achieved by a certain point in time.
The main rule is that all bodies of water should achieve that which the water agency calls good status
(Vattenmyndigheterna, 2022).
All sea water from the coast to the outer limit of Sweden’s economic zone fall under the EQS for sea
quality. The current project area for the Herkules wind farm lies in the Baltic Sea proper 4, in the basin
of the eastern Gotland Sea outer waters. (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2019a). The current project
area lies at its closest, 35km from the territorial waters’ outer limit which means that the project has
been judged to have little to no impact on the EQS in territorial waters. This will be further investigated
in forthcoming EQS following surveys and modelling.
Good environmental status
4
The Baltic Sea proper is that part of the Baltic Sea reaching from south Åland Sea to the Danish sounds. The North
Åland Sea, Gulf of Finland, Bay of Riga are not (in most cases) included.
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Good environmental status is the desired condition in the environment and serves as an overarching
environmental quality standard for the Baltic Sea. The parameters involved in maintaining or achieving
good environmental status in the sea are physical and chemical conditions, habitats and biological
conditions. Pressures can include physical disturbance, introduction of nutrients and organic matter,
introduction of hazardous substances and biological disturbance.
The description of good environmental status is divided into 11 themed area, descriptors, see Table 8,
and are found in Annex 2 of the Marine and Water Agency’s regulations (HVMFS) 2012:18 (Havs- och
vattenmyndigheten, 2012). Each descriptor is then divided into one or more criteria based on the
description of what conditions constitute good environmental status within that descriptor. In turn,
each criterion has indicators which are the parameters for measurement/investigation by the
environmental monitoring in order to determine whether the conditions in the criterion are met (Havs-
och vattenmyndigheten, 2022b).
Table 8 . Good environmental status 11 themes (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2022b).
Themes
1. Biodiversity
2. Non-native species
3. Commercially beneficial fish and shellfish
4. Marine food webs
5. Eutrophication
6. Integrity of the seabed
7. Existing changes in hydrographic conditions
8. Concentrations and effects of hazardous substances
9. Hazardous substances in fish and other marine life
10. Marine debris
11. Underwater noise
The themes which are considered to potentially impact the planned wind farm are:
- Biodiversity
- Integrity of the seabed
- Underwater noise
Each theme in turn has indicators which are measured and investigated in the environmental monitor-
ing programme. Eutrophication, hazardous substances, marine debris, noise, physical loss and physical
disturbance to habitats, fish including by-catch and non-native species.
What impact development of an offshore wind farm can have and the scope of the impact will be inves-
tigated in the forthcoming EQS.
4.3 Overview of nearby wind farm developments
Where there are nearby wind farms, so-called cumulative effects can occur. Table 9 below lists the
planned wind power developments in the water within 50 km from the project area. Of the four total
planned projects within this distance, three are located outside of Swedish waters. This area is identified
as a development zone in 4C Offshore (4C Offshore). The project located in Swedish water lies 14 km
from the outer limit of the Herkules project area and has applied to the Geological Survey of Sweden
for an investigation permit (OX2 AB, 2022).
Figure 13shows an overview of known planned offshore wind power development. Wind turbines that
have been built, have received permits or are being processed on land are not shown because the dis-
tance to land is more than 50 km.
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Table 9. Summary of nearby planned offshore wind power developments within 50km of the project area. Distance is from the
outer limit of the Herkules project area.
Project Distance Operators/Country Status
Investigation permits ac-
Pleione 14 km OX2/Sverige
cording to CSA processed
A (outside of Swedish
40 km Latvia/Lithuania Development zone
waters)
B (outside of Swedish
47 km Latvia Development zone
waters)
C (outside of Swedish
45 km Latvia Development zone
waters)
Figure 13. Overview of the nearby wind power developments (Vindbrukskollen), (4C Offshore)& (OX2 AB, 2022). Projektområde
– Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters
boarders; Projekteringsområde till havs: Handläggs (Vindbrukskollen) – Offshore windfar Project area (Vindbrukskollen); Ut-
vecklingszon (4C Offshore) – Obszar rozwoju morskich farm wiatrowych (4C Offshore); Tidigt planering – Projekt na wstępnym
etapie planowania; Projektområde: Pleione – Projekt Pleione (powolenie na badania dnia morskiego).
4.4 Existing cables and lines
Along the Baltic seabed there are several different cables and lines for telecommunications, electricity
transmission and gas. Those lying close to the project areas are the gas lines Nordstream 1 and 2 be-
tween Russia and Germany, see Figure 14. The planned Nordstream 2is the line which is closest to the
project area, approx 15 km from the project area’s outer limit. Two different fibre cables are located
within the project area. The east-west cable from Katthammarsvik in Sweden to Lithuania is called BCS
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East-West Interlink and the so-called C-Lion1 cable, goes north to south from Finland to Germany. Both
cables are fibre cables for telecommunication.
Aside from these cables there are no further cables or lines within or to the project area other than
what is known about from accessible material.
Figure 14. Existing cable and lines/pipes in the vicinity of the project area (EMODnet, 2022a). Projektområde – Project area;
Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Kablar
– Cables; Ledningar/rör – Pipelines-, Aktiv – Active; Planerad – Planned; Under konstruktion – Under construction.
4.5 Depth and marine geology
The ocean depth in the project area varies and lies between 107 m and 224 m, see Figure 15. Since the
depth in the project area is over 60m, it is well-suited to a development of a wind farm with floating
foundations.
The geology of the area consists predominantly of hard clay and mud which can be seen below in
Figure 16.
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Figure 15. Depth conditions within and around the project area (EMODnet). Projektområde – Project area; Sjöterritoriets gräns
– Territorial waters boarders.
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Figure 16. Overview of the seabed material within the project area for Herkules (HELCOM 2008a & SGU). Projektområde –
Project area; Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Berggrund – Bedrock; Hårdbottenkomplex – Mixed hard bottom;
Sand – Sand; Hård lera – Hard clay; Lera – Clay.
4.6 Oceanographic parameters
The Baltic Sea is a semi-enclosed sea surrounded by nine countries with limited flow to the ocean. Water
circulation is dominated by salinity and temperature difference rather than by winds. Surface water
salinity, halocline strength 5 and surface water temperature decrease to the north where the impact of
winter ice cover increases. Due to the shallow thresholds in the Baltic Sea, the turnover time of the
water is around 30 years in the southern Baltic Sea and 40 years in the northern part. This means that
the Baltic Sea is heavily affected by drainage from the surrounding land masses (Snoeijs-Leijonmalm,
Schubert, & Radziejewska, 2017).
4.6.1 Currents & salinity
Ocean currents are created by differences in water levels, salinity and temperature, the moon and sun’s
gravitational pull as well as winds. In addition, currents are also influenced by coastlines, seabed
topography, the earth’s rotation and friction between bodies of water and the seabed. Sea water is
always moving and the greatest movements occur horizontally while vertical movements are smaller
due to density stratification(SMHI, 2011).
Salinity in the Baltic Sea is heavily impacted by the drainage of fresh water from the surrounding land
masses. The average salinity in the Baltic Sea is 7g salt per kg water, which can be compared to the
5
The divide between two bodies of water with different salinities. Also known as the saltier layer.
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average salinity of sea water of 35g. Salinity reduces northwards with around 20g per kg water in the
south and 2g in the Gulf of Bothnia(Östersjön.fi, u.d.). The location of the project area for Herkules has
salinity of around 7g per kg water (Livet i havet, 2022).
In the Baltic Sea there is no strong permanent system of currents, so it is mainly locally produced
currents as a result of wind and other factors which can have an impact on the proposed wind power
development. The fresh water which drains into the sea lies in a thin layer and moves over the heavier
salt water turning to the right due to the earth’s rotation. Gradually, the fresh water mixes
with sea water, creating a large-scale coastal current which slowly moves southwards along the
coast(SMHI, 2021).
Inflow into the Baltic Sea comes from Skagerrak and Kattegatt. The inflow consists of salty and oxygen-
rich water which affects the oxygen conditions in the Baltic Sea. Since the incoming water has a higher
salinity, it settles underneath the fresh water. Water is distributed by seabed currents in the Baltic Sea
to the east and north, where salinity decreases over time as a result of mixing with the existing water,
see Figure 17. This process heavily influences the ecosystem in the Baltic Sea (SMHI, 2012).
Figure 18 shows modelling of the annual average current speeds in the Baltic Sea. Based on this data,
the fastest seabed speed is 3.3cm/s. Even though this is not a measured current, but only modelled, it
shows that the seabed speeds in the areas are extremely low (HELCOM, 2008b).
Figure 17. Schematic of the spread of inflowing deep water into the Baltic Sea (SMHI, 2012). Projektområde – Project area; Ut-
bredning av inflödande djupvatten – Inflow of the water.
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Figure 18. Annual average current speeds in the Baltic Sea (HELCOM, 2008b). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens
yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
4.6.2 Depth of visibility
Data recorded between 2010 - 2022 from measuring station BY10, located approx 8 km east of the outer
limit of the project area, shows there the depth of visibility 6varies during and across years between
3 - 17m. This means that there is limited depth of visibility in large parts of the project area(SMHI,
2022b). The greater the depth of visibility, the deeper sunlight penetrates.
4.6.3 Oxygen-free seabeds
Oxygen is required for more life to thrive in the sea. Surface water is oxygenated through plant
photosynthesis and exchange with the atmosphere. To oxygenate the deeper water, either a vertical
mixing with the oxygen-rich surface water is needed or oxygen-rich water is added horizontally. In the
Baltic Sea proper, there is stratification of the bodies of water due to the varying salinities, saltier water
deeper and fresh water closest to the surface which make vertical mixing difficult. In addition, there are
several deep wells in the Baltic Sea which light doesn’t penetrate and where salty water gathers. In these
environments it is too dark for plants and no photosynthesis can occur so the oxygen which is present
is consumed by the decomposition of organic matter. This leads to the formation of oxygen-free or
oxygen-poor seabeds. Oxygen-free seabeds are a widespread problem in the Baltic Sea proper and it is
calculated that at depths below 80 m no life exists on the beds seeFigure 19 (Havet.nu, u.d.)
6
One measure of the water transparency.
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From measuring station BY10, located approx 8 km east of the limit of the project area, the average
oxygen content was calculated at 0.59m/l at 125 m depth and 7.9 ml/l at 5 m depth during the period
from January 2015 to July 2022 (SMHI, 2022b).
The project area is located only within an area identified as having oxygen free seabeds.
Figure 19. Map of oxygen situation in the Baltic Sea deep water. Black areas show oxygen-free seabeds. Map based on data
from 2021(Sveriges miljömål, 2021). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic
zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
4.6.4 Waves
One measure used to report the height of waves is the significant wave height. This parameter is
determined from all waves during a 30-minute period from which the average height of the highest
third of waves in the interval is calculated. This definition corresponds with what a sailor would observe
when assessing the height of waves (SMHI, 2022a). From the Södra Östersjön Buoy measuring station,
the average value for significant wave height for the period from June 2005 to April 2011 was 1.24m.
The average maximum wave height for the same period was 1.99 m with the max value during the same
period being 11.2 m(SMHI, u.d.).
4.6.5 Ice
The Baltic Sea usually starts to freeze in November in the Gulf of Bothnia and the inner Gulf of Finland.
That is followed by freezing in Kvarken, southern parts of the Gulf of Bothnia and along the coast in the
Bothnian Sea. The extent of freezing varies. In a normal winter, the entire Gulf of Bothnia, Kvarken,
almost all of the Bothnian Sea, the Archipelago Sea and even some of the Baltic Sea freeze. A mild winter
means that the Gulf of Bothnia doesn’t freeze at all and the Gulf of Finland only partially (Meteorologiska
Institutet , 2022).
As the climate warms up, this leads to less sea ice. More location specific conditions for ice formation
around the wind turbine development will be studied further.
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Figure 20. The maximum extent of ice on three different occasions(Meteorologiska Institutet , 2022).
4.7 National Interest
Chapters 3 and 4 of the Environmental Code (EC) set out the provisions for land and water management.
With support of Chapter 3 of the Environmental Code, the national authorities highlight areas of na-
tional interest such as nature conservation, cultural heritage, energy production and outdoor recrea-
tion. National interests under Chapter 4 are written into the Environmental Code directly.
When an area is designated a national interest, it is protected from measures which could seriously
damage its purpose or value. The level of protection is regulated by the Environmental Code which is
used as guidance in the event of two conflicting interests.
4.7.1 Chapter 3 Environmental Code
The national interests under Chapter 3 EC located in or near to the project area can be seen in Figure
21. No national interests from Chapter 3 EC are located within the project areas boundaries. The ship-
ping lane Gedser - Svenska Björn runs along the project area’s western side, which is a deep shipping
route identified in the marine plan as being of public interest of significant value (see Chapter 4.2.1). In
addition to shipping, the nearest national interest is commercial fishing at sea. At its closest, this lies
approx 3 km from the limit of the project area.
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Figure 21. Nearby conflicting interests from Chapter 3 of the Environmental Code. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska
zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Försvarsmakten
(Sjöövningsområde) – National Defence (Naval exercise area; Farled – Ferry routes; MSA – område –Minimum Safe Altitude
area (MSA); Yrkesfiske: Hav – Commersial fishery, open sea; Yrkesfiske: Kustzon – Commersial fishery, coastline; Friluftsliv –
Outdoor recreation; Energiproduktion (vind) – Energy production (vindfarms); Kulturmiljövärd – Cuture heritage protection ar-
eas; Naturvård – Nature protection areas.
Airports
MSA area (minimum safety altitude) determines the area within which there are determined heights for
the highest permitted objects in the area around an airport. In this area, no fixed installations higher
than the determined MSA for the area permitted.
Several MSA areas for nearby airports are located north west and west of the project area. No MSA areas
infringe on the project area.
Shipping routes
The project area is located adjacent to the national interest shipping lane, see Figure 21.
• Gedser – Svenska Björn, shipping lane class 0, protected height 65m, protected depth 19 m
(Trafikverket, u.d.).
Attention must be paid to existing shipping lanes when locating and designing a wind farm. It is advisable
to have a safety distance between the shipping lanes and the nearest wind turbines and any such dis-
tance will be determined according to the local conditions.
According to available material, there are no lighthouses within the project area.
The Swedish Maritime Administration will be part of the consultation group for the project.
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4.7.2 Chapter 4 Environmental Code
The areas identified as national interests for outdoor recreation are of great importance for people
outdoor lives and within these areas, municipalities should consider outdoor recreation in the overview
and detailed planning.
The project area for Herkules doesn’t adjoin any national interests from Chapter 4 EC. The nearest
national interest from Chapter 4 EC, which concerns outdoor recreation, is around Gotland approx 33km
from the limit of the project area. This national interest is also found along the mainland coast along
with the national interest of unbroken coastline, see Figure 22.
Figure 22. Nearby conflicting interests from Chapter 4 Environmental Code. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens
yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Högexploateradkust –
Highly exploited coastline; Obruten kust – Unexploited coast; Rörligt friluftsliv – Outdoor recreation area.
4.8 Protected areas
Within the scope of Chapter 7 of the Environmental Code, land and water areas can be protected with
different types of designation such as nature reserves, Natura 2000 areas, national parks and specific
animal or plant protected areas. The following chapter describe those which lie in the project area for
Herkules.
4.8.1 Natura 2000
Natura 2000 is a network of protected areas across all of the EU member states. The basis for the
network is two EU directives, the Birds Directive and Habitats Directive. Natura 2000 areas contribute
to the conservation of biodiversity at an EU level. Natura 2000 areas constitute both protected areas
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under Chapter 7 of the Environmental Code and national interests under Chapter 4 of the
Environmental Code.
A Natura 2000 area has been identified within an area 50 km from the project limit. Brief information
on the area can be seen below in Table 10 and a description regarding its natural value follows.
Table 10. Summary of Natura 2000 area within 50km of the project area limit. SCI= Species & habitats directive, SPA= Birds
directive
Name Distance to project area limit Natura 2000
Hoburgs bank and Midsjöbankarna. 22 km SCI / SPA
Hoburgs bank and Midsjöbankarna.
The Natura 2000 area, Hoburgs Bank and Midsjöbankarna is a large area of 10,511 km 2 which covers
both the species and habitats directive as well as the birds directive. The priority conservation values
for this Natura 2000 site are porpoise, long-tailed duck and black guillemot. These species use all or part
of the site, as well as the reefs and sandbanks present in the area and the species and biodiversity typical
of these two habitats.
The Natura 2000 area includes two shallow offshore areas, the North Midsjöbank and Hoburgs Bank.
The South Midsjöbank located outside of the Natura 2000 area is also closely connected to the
protected species despite not being included. The elevations of the outer banks create areas with
conditions similar to those of the coast. The advantage is that these areas are largely unaffected by
factors which impact coastal areas. Organisms which previously existed in coastal areas may therefore
use them as refuge. In the area around the banks, water turnover is high and environmental pollutants,
eutrophication and human impacts are lower and further out to sea compared to the coast, meaning
the area has very good conditions for many plant and animal species(Länsstyrelsen Gotlands- och
Kalmars län, 2021).
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Figure 23. Natura 2000 areas near to Herkules. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive
economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Natura 2000 (Art- och Habitatdirektivet) – Natura 2000
SPI; Natura 2000 SPA.
4.8.2 Other protected areas
Within the project area there are no other protected areas as shown in Figure 24. In addition to the
Natura 2000 areas presented in the previous chapter, there are two areas within 50km of the project
area limit identified as Ecologically or Biologically Significant Marine Areas (EBSA) of HELCOM
(see Chapter. 4.2.2). The area west of the project area, approx 21 km from the project area limit called
Southern Gotland Harbour Porpoise Area, coincides to a great extent with the Natura 2000 area Hoburgs
bank and Midsjöbankarna. Within this EBSA area there are also two Marine Protected Areas (MPA),
Hoburgs Bank and North Midsjöbank, identified by HELCOM. Why these areas have been identified is
described in the previous Chapter 4.8.1.
South east of the project area lies another EBSA area, approx 26 km from the project area’s limit called
Southeastern Baltic Sea Shallows. The area is identified by HELCOM due to its unique combination of
specific topography, protected brackish coastal environments, specific hydrological conditions and a
variety of benthic substrata 7. The combination of these parameters has enabled the formation of
unique conditions for local species and species compositions. The offshore bank, which of the EBSA
areas is closest to the project areas, acts as a refuge for the migratory species from short-term hypoxia8
in the deeper parts of the Gotland Basin. Within the area there are several Natura 2000 areas along the
7
Substrate on the seabed where plants or animals live.
8
The medical term which means that body tissue suffers from a lack of oxygen.
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Lithuanian and Latvian coast. These areas coincide almost entirely with the MPA area found within the
EBSA area(Convention on Biological Diversity, 2019).
Figure 24. Other protected areas in the vicinity of the Herkules wind farm project. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska
zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Naturreservat –
Nature reserve; Nationalpark – National Park; Djur- och växtskyddsområde – Fauna and flora protected area; MPA – Marine
Protected area.
4.9 Natural environment
The Baltic Sea’s brackish water conditions give it specific conditions with a mixture of both fresh and
salt water species. The sea is species-poor and therefore especially sensitive as the marine ecosystem
is easily impacted if one species disappears. It is especially sensitive if one of the key species disappears
which can lead to major changes in the ecosystem’s foundations(Baltic Eye, 2022). Habitats in the Baltic
Sea are driven by four main factors: salinity, oxygen content, light and seabed conditions.
The composition of the ecosystem is also influenced by factors such as currents, winds, waves,
temperature and seabed substrate.
4.9.1 Demersal plants and animals
The depth within the project area varies between approx 107m to 224m and the seabeds beds within
the project area consist predominantly of hard clay and mud as seen in Figure 16.
According to information from Sweden’s environmental goals,(Sveriges miljömål, 2022)the project area
largely includes oxygen-poor seabeds which provide poor conditions for many organisms, see Figure 19.
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The photic zone, i.e., the depth to which light penetrates into the water, is around 30 m below the
surface at open sea in winter. The limited light conditions mean that the deeper parts of the project
area support no life at all, see Figure 25.
Figure 25. Overview of the Baltic Sea benthic biotope complex. Data is based on a combination of geological sediment data and
light penetration data (HELCOM, 2010). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive eco-
nomic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Bottenmaterial – Bottom material; Ej fotisk hård botten –
Aphotic with hard bottom; Ej fotisk lera – Aphotic clay bottom; Ej fotisk sand – Aphotic sandy bottom; Fotisk lera – Photic clay;
Fotisk sand – Photic sandy bottom.
According to measurements from the nearest measuring station, BY10, the depth of visibility
throughout the year varies between 3-17 m. This means that there is limited depth of visibility in large
parts of the project area.
On these oxygen-free seabeds, large demersal animals such as fish, mussels and annelids are seldom or
never found. However, investigations of the seabed east of Gotland in 2020, found zooplankton and
annelids on the apparently dead oxygen-free seabed of the Baltic Sea (Havet.nu, u.d.).
The location specific environment and seabed conditions within the project area have not yet been
investigated, rather investigations of the seabed conditions will be conducted as part of the further work
on an Environmental Impact Assessment, see Chapter 0.
4.9.2 Marine mammals
The Baltic Sea is home to marine mammals such as porpoises, common seals, grey seals and
ringed seals.
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Porpoises
The Baltic Sea has a population of porpoises which migrates between southern Skåne and the northern
Gulf of Bothnia and one of the most important areas for porpoises is found in Hanö Bay. The species is
on the Red List and classes as vulnerable (VU) according to the species data bank’s national red list. In
a 2016 study by the SAMBAH project, the number of porpoises in the Baltic Sea population was esti-
mated to be 500 (SAMBAH, 2016), see Figure 26.
Modelling has identified areas in need of protection in the Baltic Sea (Carlström, J & Carlén, I, 2016), see
Figure 27. This figure shows important areas during summer and associated zones of consideration. This
figure shows that the project area is not within the area of specific importance for the Baltic Sea
population during the summer reproductive period or its zone of consideration.
The porpoises use other areas of the Baltic Sea during different periods of the year. Between March-
May and February-April, two coastal areas around Gotland are important areas for porpoises. Based on
a combination of acoustic investigations (SAMBAH project) and Kernal density9 from previous studies,
the presence of porpoises in the project area is low(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2018).
Figure 26. The probability of finding porpoises in the Baltic Sea at different times of year (HELCOM, 2016 & HELCOM, 2017).
Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns –
Territorial waters boarders; Sannolikhet för upptäkt av tumlare (Nov-Apr) – Probability for harbour porpoise presence (Nov –
Apr); Sannolikhet för upptäkt av tumlare (Maj-Okt) - Probability for harbour porpoise presence (May – Oct).
9
A method of estimating probability density based on a limited data set.
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Figure 27. Sensitive areas for Baltic Sea porpoises (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, Öhman, & Andresson-Li, Ekologiskt hållbar
vindkraft i Östersjön, Rapport 7055, 2022). Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive
economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Viktigt tumlareområde sommar – Important areas for
harbour porpoise, summer; Hänsynzon – Consideration areas.
Seals
The grey seal is the most common seal in Sweden and is mostly found in the Baltic Sea. There are
estimated to be between 37,000 and 50,000 grey seals in the Baltic Sea. Areas with grey seals are found
from the Falsterbo peninsula in Skåne to Haparanda in North Bothnia with the majority of grey seals
being found in the archipelagos of Stockholm and Södermanland, though there are also large population
in the Sea of Bothnia and North Kvarken as well as along the south coast. The grey seal is listed as of
least concern according to the Swedish Red List. The greatest threat to grey seals is climate change
which reduces the pack ice in the Baltic Sea, environmental pollutants and by-catch in commercial
fishing (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022). Based on the national
environmental monitoring programme of seal colonies, the occurrence of seals in the project area
is low(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2018).
In 2019, the number of ringed seals was estimated as 22,000 animals (Havs- och vattenmyndigheten,
2019b) with most found in the Gulf of Bothnia. The ringed seal is considered of least concern in the
Swedish Red List. Based on the national environmental monitoring programme of seal colonies, no
ringed seals were found in the project area in 2018(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2018).
Common seals are predominantly found along the west coast but also in the Baltic Sea, in the Kalmar
Sound. The population in the Kalmar Sound is classed as vulnerable (VU) in the red list. In 2005, it was
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estimated to be maximum 477 animals. Based on the national environmental monitoring programme
of seal colonies, no common seals are found in the project area(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2018).
4.9.3 Fish
A variety of fresh and salt water fish species are found in the Baltic Sea. The number of fish species in
the Baltic Sea is around 80(Baltic Eye, 2022). Cod, haddock, herring and sprats are among the species
found in the Baltic Sea. One of the key species in the Baltic Sea is cod.
According to data from HELCOM, there is no cod spawning within the project area(HELCOM, 2021)and
the occurrence of cod is considered to be low. The occurrence of spawning grounds for the most
important species for commercial fishing within the project area is mostly considered to be low.
However, there are small areas within the project area where the assessment is high (Havs- och
vattenmyndigheten, 2018). The occurrence of herring and sprats within the project are is rather lower
than cod and sprats are considered to spawn throughout the project area(HELCOM, 2021).
A survey of the occurrence of different fish species will be conducted together with the Environmental
Impact Assessment, see Chapter0.
4.9.4 Birds
Various bird species are found in different marine areas in different ways during the year depending on
whether they are overwintering, resting or foraging. There are often migration routes near the coast.
The bird species found in the Baltic Sea during summer and/or winter can be divided into three groups
based on the type of food they consume. The Baltic Sea’s bird species can be broadly divided into three
groups: those which live on plants in shallow water, those that feed on fish and other animals in the
body of water and those which eat mussels and other seabed animals(Larsson, 2012). Fish-eating birds
can in turn be divided into two groups: flying birds which look for and capture their food on or near to
the surface such as terns and gulls, and those which mainly swim and deep dive for fish such as ducks,
guillemots, skuas, dippers and cormorants. The bird types which mostly eat seabed plants are for
example, eider, velvet scoter, common scoter and long-tailed ducks
Together with the project Marina skyddsvärden runt Gotland och Öland led by the Gotland County
Administrative Board in 2018, the Administrative Board produced a report (Larsson, 2018)with the aim
of summarising and interpreting the bird distribution and use of the offshore banks as well as sea and
coastal areas around Gotland and Öland.
Several bird species use the sea areas around Gotland and Öland. The closest area surveyed in relation
to the project area for Herkules is Hoburgs Bank. This area, together with the north and south
Midsjöbankerna are the most important overwintering areas for the rapidly declining populations of
long-tailed ducks but is also important for black guillemots(Larsson, 2018).
The project summary lists a number of areas which should be high priority for protection of long-tailed
ducks and black guillemots. The project area doesn’t cover any of these areas but they lie closer to the
coast in shallower waters than the planned wind farm(Larsson, 2018).
The occurrence of overwintering sea birds within the planned project area is low(Havs- och
vattenmyndigheten, 2018)and according to documents from HELCOM, no red list bird species are found
in the project area.
A survey of the occurrence of birds will be conducted together with the Environmental Impact
Assessment, see Chapter0.
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4.9.5 Bats
19 different species of bat can be found in Sweden, of which 12 are red-listed(Artdatabanken, 2022). All
of the 19 species are strictly protected and bat surveys are therefore required for all types of
development which may have an impact. Sweden has a long tradition of mapping the occurrence of bats
and development of wind power has increased knowledge of bats in the context of the surveys
conducted(De Jong, Gyltje Blank, Ebenhard, & Ahlén, 2020). Several bat species are found on Gotland.
At sea, most bats fly at heights lower than 40 m and they like to use wind turbines as resting sites. Bats
fly over sea only in relatively light winds, rarely at wind speeds above 10m/s. Most activity takes place
at wind speeds below 5 m/s. However, it varies between species. Larger species tolerate stronger winds
but all bats prefer light winds. In addition, very good weather is required for foraging at sea and intensive
and prolonged foraging usually takes place in calm or very light winds when waves are insignificant or
there is still water. These are the same conditions in which insects thrive in large quantities higher up
around wind turbines (Ahlén, Bach, Baagø, & Pettersson, 2007).
A survey of the occurrence of bats will be conducted together with the Environmental Impact
Assessment, see Chapter 0.
4.10 Fishing
Commercial fishing in Sweden takes place along the coast and also at sea. From this, fishing can be
categorised into a number of groups including pelagic (species which live in the open sea) and demersal
species(Bergenius, o.a., 2018). Since there is oxygen-free seabed in the project area (see Chapter4.6.3)
the fishing in the area concerns pelagic fishing.
In recent years, Swedish fishing in the Baltic Sea has mostly been focused on herring and sprat
(Havs- och vattenmyndigheten, 2022d).
There is no identified national interest for commercial fishing within the project area for Herkules. The
nearest area identified is located approx 3 km from the project area’s limit. Within the area, the
presence of fishing vessels is restricted, as illustrated below in Figure 28 and Figure 29.
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Figure 28. Vessel density for commercial fishing in the project area and vicinity 2018-2021 (EMODnet, 2022b). Projektområde
– Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters
boarders; Riksintresse Yrkesfiske – National interest for commercial fishing; Hav – Open sea; Kustzon – Coastline.
Some commercial fishing takes place in the project area mostly of pelagic fish with trawls, see Figure
29. The pelagic fishing takes place most of the year but species and locations vary depending on a variety
of factors such as fish biology and migratory patterns (Swedish Pelagic Federation
Producentorganisation, 2022). A consultation will take place regarding international fishing within the
framework of the Espoo consultation.
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Figure 29. Location of Swedish fishing between 2016-2021(Havs och vattenmyndigheten, 2022e). Projektområde – Project area;
Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Punkter
för fiske – Fishing points; Bottentrål pelagiskt – Pelagic bottom trawl; Flyttrål pelagisk – Pelagic floating trawl; Bottentrål torsk
– Bottom trawl, cod.
4.11 Marine culture value
Section 2 Chapter 1 § p. 8 Cultural Environment Act (1988:950) states that shipwrecks constitute ancient
monuments provided that the sinking occurred before 1850. A shipwreck from 1850 or later may be
declared an ancient monument by the County Administrative Board if there are special reasons relating
to its cultural and historical value(Riksantikvarieämbetet, 2014).
Swedish jurisdiction10can apply in the whole of the Swedish marine territory, i.e., in both the area known
as inner waters and territorial waters. The law on Sweden’s marine territory (1966:374), states that
territorial waters extend 12 nautical miles (M) i.e., around 22km from the baseline. Within this area the
Cultural Environment Act applies in its entirety. In addition, the UN’s Convention on the Law of the Sea
of 1982, gives coastal states the right to establish a so-called contiguous zone outside of the territorial
waters. This zone, also calculated from the baseline, can be up to 24 m wide. The coastal states which
have established such a zone have the right to protect archaeological and historical finds and remains
found inside this limit. Such a zone was established in Sweden in 2017 (2017:1272), Law on the Swedish
territorial waters and maritime zones.
10
Jurisdiction or judicial power, to administer justice and to judge. The jurisdiction is limited to a geographic area
or to certain people or a certain subject matter.
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A search for known cultural-historical remains has been carried out in the Swedish National Heritage
Board’s database (Riksantikvarieämbetet, 2022), see Figure 30, which showed that there were no known
remains within the project area.
Figure 30. Cultural value within and near the project area. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ)
– Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Fartygs/båtlämning – Ship/boat abandon-
ment; Boplats – Remains of the houses; Fyndplats – Remains.
Before a large area of the ocean or a sea ca be exploited, the affected seabeds are surveyed with regard
to existing water depth, presence of flora and fauna, seabed conditions and more. Along with these
surveys, a search for remains can also be conducted. The most suitable method is sonar mapping (Side
Scan Sonar) from a boat. The County Administrative Board can decide that such a survey is required
under the Law on Cultural Monuments (KML) but this can also be done within the framework of an
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)(Riksantikvarieämbetet, 2017).
4.12 Outdoor recreation and leisure
An offshore wind farm may have a certain impact on outdoor recreation and leisure. The impact may
consist on physical intrusion and encroachment on areas of high value for outdoor recreation and
leisure. The farm also changes the landscape and a changed value of experience from the surrounding
areas. How the value of experiences changes depends on the individual’s opinion of offshore wind
power and isn’t always considered negatively.
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The closest areas for active outdoor recreation include the whole of Gotland and the associated waters,
see Figure 31. The national interest of outdoor recreation also exists along the mainland coast and
encompasses all of Öland and the surrounding waters. The national interest of outdoor recreation also
exists along the Gotland and Öland coastline as well as the mainland coast, see Figure 31.
Figure 31. Overview of the national interest for outdoor recreation and activities. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska
zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders.
4.13 Mines and dumped ammunition
Mines, ammunition and chemical weapons can be found in the Baltic Sea, and it may have the highest
concentrations of these in any of the world’s seas. Most of the munitions are from the period during
and after the World Wars(Transportstyrelsen, 2022).
Within the Herkules project area there are no known munitions, see Figure 32. The adjacent area to the
south of the project area is identified as an area where chemical weaponry was dumped.
To investigate any un-detonated ammunition and mines (UXO) on the seabed within the affected area
for Herkules, inventories will be carried out. These results will be used to ensure appropriate preventa-
tive measures are taken before design and construction work begins.
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Figure 32. Overview of the area with risk of mines and dumped ammunition. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens
yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Dumpad ammunition,
kemisk – Dumped chemical ammunition; Dumpad ammunition, okänd – Unknown dumped ammunition; Områden med fynd av
material för kemisk krigföring – Areas of chemical warfare material finds; Rapporterade fynd av kemiska stridsmedel 1961 –
2012 – Reported finds of chemical warfare agents 1961 – 2012; Rapporterade fynd av kemiska ammunition – Reported finds of
chemical munitions; Riskområde för minor som sjönk under andra världskriget – Risk area for mines sunk during the IIWW.
4.14 Landscape
Due to their size and constant movement of the rotor bales, wind turbines have a visually dominant
impact on the landscape. Developments are towards even taller wind turbines which are visible across
a wide area. Wind farm developments change the landscape and affect people’s experiences of their
surroundings and local identity. Certain landscapes may be especially sensitive to wind power, while
wind turbines may add value to other landscapes (Boverket, 2009). The planned wind power develop-
ment Herkules will involve the landscape changes from an undisturbed horizon to a horizon with a man-
made development.
The experience of the landscape is largely subjective, driven by individual experiences, knowledge, atti-
tude and use of the landscape. Visualisation is an important part of determining the impact on the land-
scape in the forthcoming EIA.
4.14.1 Obstruction marking
Aviation Obstruction Lighting
The wind turbines will be fitted with obstruction markings in accordance with the Swedish Transport
Agency’s regulations and general guidance on marking objects which may pose a danger to aviation,
currently TSFS 2020:88. Current regulations include the following: A wind turbine over 150 m above
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land or sea level (including rotors) must be painted white and equipped with a high intensity white
flashing light at the top of the motor housing (nacelle). If the nacelle is over 150 m above sea level, the
tower must also be marked with at least three low intensity lights from half way up to the nacelle. In a
wind farm, the wind turbines at the edge of the farm must be marked as above as a minimum. Other
wind turbines within the wind farm will be painted white and as a minimum equipped with low intensity
lights on the turbine’s highest fixed point.
The white lights must be illuminated to maximum strength during daytime. During this time the maxi-
mum intensity for the high intensity lights is 100,000 candela (cd). At dusk the light strength can be
reduced to 20,000 cd and during hours of darkness, the regulations permit a reduction to 2,000 cd i.e.,
2% of the daytime light intensity.
Marine Obstruction Lighting
Offshore wind turbines must be equipped with maritime safety devices, such as obstruction lights. This
is in accordance with international recommendations from the marine organisation International
Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), Guideline -G1162. In
addition, this is regulated at a national level in Transportstyrelsens föreskrifter och allmänna råd om
utmärkning till sjöss med sjösäkerhetsanordningar (SSA), TSFS 2017:66.
The wind farms design, size and location will determine which type and how many safety devices are
required. Markings are categorised in two groups, Significant Peripheral Structures (SPS) and
Intermediate Peripheral Structures (IPS). These markings are placed on the wind turbine tower, usually
6-15 m above surface level.
For the example design for the project, an obstruction lighting analysis has been conducted to see how
obstruction lighting looks for aviation and marine traffic since this impacts how the development will be
experienced, see Figure 33.
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Figure 33. Proposals for how the obstruction lighting may look for the example design with 121 turbines for both aviation and
marine traffic. Projektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterrito-
riets gräns – Territorial waters boarders; Hinderbelysning: Luftfart – Obstacle lighting: Aviation; High intensity white flashing
light; Lågintensivt rött fast ljus - Low-intensity red solid light.
4.14.2 Visibility
The visibility of the example design of Herkules has been analysed with the aid of a sightline analysis.
This analysis shows the theoretical distance from which the wind turbines can be seen from the sea
surface before they disappear under the horizon due to the curvature of the earth. Figure 34 shows how
far it is theoretically possible to see the tops of the blades in their highest position (the blue and purple
lines) as well as the obstruction lighting for aviation (at hub height, orange line) at the sea surface in
perfect visibility considering the curvature of the earth. The blue line shows the maximum total height
which is envisaged for the project (360m) and the purple and orange line show how it theoretically
appears based on the dimensions of the example design.
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Figure 34. The lines show the distance the wind turbines are still visible from the sea surface for the example design (Chapter
3.2.1). The blue and purple lines show from how far away the top of the blades in their highest position are visible and the
orange line shows from how far away the obstruction lighting is visible from the sea surface for aviation (hub height). Pro-
jektområde – Project area; Ekonomiska zonens yttre gräns (EEZ) – Exclusive economic zone (EEZ); Sjöterritoriets gräns – Terri-
torial waters boarders.
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5 IMPACT FACTORS
The environmental impact and individual and public interest differ across the three project phases:
construction phase, operation phase and decommissioning phase, in terms of both scope and time, see
Table 11. Some of the impact factors are not relevant to all parts of the project phases. These impact
factors can, in turn, lead to the impact and environmental effects reviewed in Chapter 0below.
An important aspect when looking at the impact of an activity is the duration of the impact and severity
of the specific impact for the respective species’ population. An impact for a long period of time, for
example 30-40 years of operation, is considered more significant for population development than
a temporary impact for 1-2 years unless the latter is very large (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, Öhman,
& Andresson-Li, 2022).
Table 11. Impact factors in the three project phases Large X: high impact, small x: low impact, no x: no impact.
Construction Decommissioning
Impact factors Operational phase
phase phase
WIND FARM, MEASURING STATIONS, OSS AND INTERNAL CABLE NETWORK
Sound (underwater sound, op-
X x X
erational sound, noise)
Turbidity X x X
Landscape x X x
Increase traffic (vessels) X x X
Collision risk x X x
Habitat loss x x x
New habitats x X
Electromagnetic field x X
Climate (emissions to the air) X x X
Shadows X
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Table12 Possible impact factors of downstream activities for the three project phases for export cable. Large X: high impact,
small x: low impact, no x: no impact.
Construction Decommissioning
Impact factors Operational phase
phase phase
ACCOMPANYING ACTIVITIES - EXPORT CABLE
Sound (underwater sound,
x x
operational sound, noise)
Turbidity X X
Increase traffic (vessels) X X
Habitat loss x x x
New habitats x X
Electromagnetic field X
Climate (emissions to the air) x x
5.1 Sound, underwater sound, operational sound, noise
During the three project phases, different types of noise will occur but the greatest impact of noise will
be in the construction phase. The groups of species most impacted by the predominantly high intensity
submarine noise are fish and marine mammals (Vindval, 2022). The vessels used during all three phases
for construction, operation and decommissioning also emit noise.
Noise is also emitted by the site surveys conducted during the planning phase as surveys and data
collection are conducted to apply for and receive the required permits and to identify the final design
of the wind farm.
In the construction phase, anchoring the floating foundations and substations emits noise as well as the
construction of the internal cable network. The scope of the noise depends on the final choice of
anchoring method.
In the operational phase, the wind turbines emit a swishing noise created when the rotor blades cut
through the air. The scope of the noise depends on the rotor blades’ size and design, the rotation speed
and the surrounding wind conditions. The motor housing itself also emits a sound. The wind turbine’s
rotation also gives rise to a low frequency noise which is the consequence of vibrations in the tower or
noise from the motor housing. The noise varied with the wind speed.
In the decommissioning phase, the scope of the noise emitted is similar to the construction phase.
5.2 Turbidity
Due to the anchoring of foundations and substations, installation of cables and decommissioning of the
wind farm, some disturbance of sediment can occur. The scope of the turbidity depends on the choice
of anchoring method, type of seabed substrate, salinity, water temperature and the areas cur-
rents(Naturvårdsverket, 2009).
In the operational phase, the chains anchoring the wind turbines may cause some disturbance and dis-
tribution of sediment. The scope of turbidity in the operational phase depends on changes in water
conditions and anchoring method.
The effect of turbidity is also related to the occurrence of any pollutants in the seabed sediment.
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5.3 Landscape
In the construction and decommissioning phases, vessels will be seen in the wind farm area, as well as
the transport route used to transport to and from the shore. In the operational phase, the wind turbines
will visibly change the landscape, which varies with the total height of the wind turbines and the distance
from the beholder to the various turbines.
5.4 Increased shipping
There will be increased shipping during the three different phases. The increase will be greatest during
the construction and decommissioning phases. In the operational phase, service vessels will travel be-
tween land and the wind farm.
5.5 Collision risk
The wind farm and its substations and wind turbines create a collision risk for vessels, birds and bats.
5.6 Habitat loss
Some habitat loss will occur in the construction and decommissioning phases. Habitat loss on the seabed
will be both temporary and permanent. The extent of this depends on the anchoring method and choice
of method for laying cables.
Above the water surface there may be some habitat loss for birds. The extent of this depends on which
species are found in and around the project area.
5.7 New habitats
New habitats will arise within the wind farm in the operational phase in the form of hard surfaces. These
new habitats consist of the anchorages fixing the wind turbines to the seabed, cable protection on the
seabed, substations and the wind turbine floating foundations.
5.8 Electromagnetic field
In the operational phase an electromagnetic field will be created by the internal cable network. The
electromagnetic field is formed by the generation and transmission of electricity. The electromagnetic
impact decreases with distance from the cables.
5.9 Climate, emissions to the air
During all three phases there will be increased emissions to the air from the vessels and machines used.
The greatest increase will be in the construction and decommissioning phase as many work boats and
machines will be used. The amount of emissions can be regulated through choice of fuel.
In operation, the wind farm will contribute to renewable and emission-free electricity which will replace
other electricity produced from fossil fuels.
5.10 Shadows
In the operational phase there will be both fixed and mobile shadows from the wind turbine’s tower
and rotor blade. The scope of the shadows depends on the position of the sun in relation to the wind
turbine and varies throughout the day. The scope of the shadow also depends on the weather and is
lower when it is cloudy. The intensity of the shadow is reduced with distance from the tower. At most,
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the shadows will penetrate to a depth corresponding to the photic zone, i.e., the depth to which sunlight
penetrates below the surface, approx 30m.
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6 PROTECTIVE MEASURES
In all three phases of establishing an offshore wind farm disturbances and impacts on the surrounding
area can arise. The impact can be both direct and indirect and varies in nature and scope depending on
the phase of the development. The conditions in the relevant area also determine the scope of
environmental impact(Havs- och Vattenmyndigheten, 2022c).
During the introductory work in the authorisation process for an offshore wind farm a comprehensive
location survey is conducted with the aim of finding the optimal site for the development. The location
survey takes into consideration to conflicting interests and existing natural values as well as the
presence of sensitive species. This survey is a protective measure in itself, since it considers the
environmental sensitivity on the basis of existing evidence.
In addition, different technical solutions regarding choice of foundation and construction methods
result in different scopes of environmental impact.
In order to reduce the negative impact, a number of protective methods and precautions can be used.
This may involve technical solutions or regulating the time of year or day when certain types of work
can be carried out.
To reduce the negative impact on fish spawning, sensitive periods of time can be avoided and the same
can be done to adapt the time of the work to porpoise mating and calving periods. Times when certain
work can be conducted can be regulated in the conditions of authorisation.
In the event the construction period causes extensive underwater noise, noise protecting methods
can be used in the form of bubble curtains or hydro sound dampers (HSD) or a combination of these.
A so-called ramp up can also be used, where the pile driving intensity is gradually increased allowing fish
and porpoises to the opportunity to leave the area before the noise increases (Naturvårdsverket, 2012).
Sediment dispersal can occur with anchoring and decommissioning of the floating foundations.
Sediment dispersal depends on the mooring method as well as the character of the seabed and
presence of any environmental pollutants. Sediment dispersal can also occur due to the laying and
removal of the external cable network. Sediment dispersal shouldn’t occur in the important fish
breeding areas in breeding season. Should there be a risk of comprehensive turbidity there are methods
to reduce the dispersal.
Use of vessels in the construction phase can be planned in such a way that the number of transports is
reduced and thus minimised.
The applications for establishing the Herkules wind farm will include proposals for appropriate
protective measure adapted to the scope and conditions of the activity seeking authorisation.
Following receipt of authorisation, a control program will be established and conducted to facilitate the
final design of measures to reduce the negative impact on the environment.
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7 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACTS.
Impact and environmental effects occur in the three different phases of establishing a wind farm. The
scope of the impact differs between the three phases in terms of time and space. The scope of
environmental effects also depends on the choice of technical solutions, protective measures and
working methods for mooring and construction.
The planned wind farm will be constructed in the deeper parts of the Baltic Sea with oxygen-poor
seabeds and both flora and fauna are generally poorer in deep environments than shallow. Marine
species which live in the deep hard seabeds are especially lacking in the Baltic Sea due to the low salt
content. According to the report Ekologisk hållbar vindkraft i Östersjön, it is good from a sustainability
perspective that wind farms tend to be built in areas with deep water as a wind farm sited in a deep
area causes less disturbance to the benthic environment. The report also includes an assessment of the
oxygen-free areas which are the most suitable locations to build floating wind power in the Baltic Sea
from an environmental perspective(Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, C Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022).
Below is an overview of the impact on various interests as initially assessed based on existing infor-
mation. Under the relevant heading, only those factors are described that are initially considered to
have a potential impact on the respective interest, others are omitted. The impact of the activity will be
investigated within the framework of the forthcoming EIA and a more thorough description and assess-
ment of the environmental effects will also be conducted within this. The statement below includes the
different technical alternatives being investigated for consideration. The forthcoming environmental
impact assessment will be based on a worst-case scenario for each technical alternative investigated.
The environmental effect of accompanying activities and the export cable are difficult to assess cur-
rently, since the placement, dimensions and laying method are not yet determined. A cable will be laid
on or in the seabed and may have some environmental impact, mostly for a limited time during the
construction phase. The marine environment may be affected by the dispersal of sediment and in some
cases there may be a risk of environmental pollutants being released. Where an assessment can be
made, from existing knowledge and experience, this is described under the relevant heading below.
7.1 National interest
There is no national interest within the project area for Herkules. The national interest for shipping lanes
borders the eastern limit of the project area and a national interest for commercial fishing is found close
to the project area. These are initially assessed as not being impacted by the development.
There is not considered to be an impact on the possibility fo exercising the national interest for outdoor
recreation covering Gotland and its surrounding waters as a result of the planned wind farm Herkules.
However, the area’s landscape value should be highlighted in the forthcoming landscape analysis.
The national interest for cultural heritage on land is not considered to be impacted by the establishment
of the wind farm Herkules since the visibility from land will be extremely limited.
7.2 Protected areas
The outer limit of the project area for Herkules lies approx 22 km from the edge of the Natura 2000 area
Hoburgs bank and Midsjöbankarna. Wind Sweden makes the assessment that the planned wind farm
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Herkules will not cause any significant impact to the environment in the Natura 2000 area, nor according
to the points below. This is due to the large distance, which means that no Natura 2000 authorisation
is required.
- High noise which can cause strong behavioural reactions or temporary/permanent hearing
damage in porpoises.
- Continual noise which disturbs porpoises, such as from construction work, increased marine
traffic which generates noise.
- Increased vessel traffic and routes which cross important overwintering areas, foraging of
breeding areas for porpoises, long-tailed ducks and black guillemots.
- Offshore wind farms which create avoidance effects on long-tailed ducks during the operational
phase.
- Cable laying, such as for connecting offshore wind power, which can damage reefs
and sandbanks.
7.3 Natural environment
7.3.1 Demersal plants and animals
The project area is found within a deep area, below the photic zone and also in an area consisting of
oxygen-poor seabeds. This creates poor conditions for rich biological seabed life. The seabeds
predominantly consist of clay of different hardness. The depth of visibility is limited and the penetration
of the sun to the seabed is zero due to the depth of the project area.
Some physical disturbance may arise during the construction phase due to the turbine and substation
mooring work and cable laying. The disturbance consists of turbidity, noise and the impact on the
seabed substrate. Turbidity may arise in the construction phase and can spread to a limited area around
the substations, anchors and cables. An impact on the immediate vicinity may also be seen through
some coverage of seabeds in connection with mooring and cable laying as well as construction of
substations. The impact on the different existing species depends on their normal exposure to turbidity.
After construction, the seabeds will be recolonised relatively comprehensively, as any coverage is
judged to be limited(Sveriges Lantbruksuniversitet, 2020). Some disturbance of seabed-living animals
may occur due to the noise of construction works.
In the operational phase, hard surfaces from the different parts of the wind farm can lead to the
establishment of species which live on hard seabeds. The low frequency noise emitted during the
operational phase is not judged to have a negative impact on seabed life(Vindval, 2022). The impact of
the electromagnetic field from cables, is judged to be non-existent during the operational phase.
According to existing studies, there is no evidence that this magnetic field should have a negative impact
on organisms at population level(Vindval, 2022).
In the decommissioning phase, physical disturbances will arise corresponding to those in the construc-
tion phase.
A final assessment of the impact on seabed plants and animals in the different phases will be conducted
following the forthcoming investigations and EIA.
The methodology for laying export cables is still unclear but the cables will need to be laid either on or
in the seabed which will cause turbidity. The extent of the turbidity and how far the particles spread
depends on the actual seabed substrate, current conditions and the choice of laying method. The
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smaller the particles on the seabed, such as clay, the greater the turbidity. Smaller particles spread fur-
ther than the is the same measure is carried out on a sand or stone seabed. The size of the particles
determines the length of time before they settle on the seabed again and therefore the spread and
thickness of the subsequent sediment deposits. Some coverage of the seabed may also occur. New
habitats may arise if the cable is laid on the seabed and protected with stones or blocks.
7.3.2 Marine mammals
In the construction phase, along with the arising high noise, there may be a risk of negative impacts on
porpoises and seals. Sudden, high noises can lead to behavioural changes and hearing damage should
the animals be in the vicinity of the construction area. If protective measures are taken and particular
attention is paid to important times of year for porpoises, these negative risks can be avoided.
In the operational phase, the wind farm can have a positive effect on seals and porpoises where the
establishment leads to a greater occurrence of hard seabed species and fish, The noise emitted during
operation does not appear to adversely affect either seals or porpoises(Vindval, 2022). Altogether the
impact during the operational phase is judged as low (Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland Isæus, Öhman, &
Andresson-Li, 2022).
In the decommissioning phase, the effects are judged to correspond to those during the construction
phase.
A final assessment of the impact on marine mammals in the different phases will be conducted following
the forthcoming investigations and EIA.
The export cable will be laid by a cable laying vessel which will generate noise from the vessel and the
equipment used for laying on the seabed. As cable laying is judged to be quite quick and the total time
the vessel will be in a specific area is limited, the impact from noise related to the presence of vessels
is initially judged to be low.
7.3.3 Fish
In the construction phase, underwater noise will arise due to the laying of cables and mooring founda-
tions and construction of substations. The size of the disturbance depends on which mooring and con-
struction methods are chosen. Increased presence of boats and work vessels will also generate noise.
This noise may cause escape responses in fish(Vindval, 2012). Fish may also be negatively impacted by
turbidity and the suspended material which occurs with work on soft seabeds. The size of the disturb-
ance depends on the nature of the seabed, current speeds, mooring and construction methods, protec-
tive measures and the amount and species of fish present in the area at the time. Which time of the
year work is carried out is also a decisive factor in the impact on fish.
The noise emitted by the wind turbines in the operational phase arises when the rotors spin. This noise
does not appear to adversely affect fish to the extent that it would inhibit fish behaviour (Vindval, 2022).
If more species of hard seabed species arise on the structures of the wind farm, this could lead to a
positive impact on fish. Studies of cod show that their presence increases near wind farms which is
probably due to the increased availability of food and possibly protection. Regulation of commercial
fishing often occurs with the establishment of wind farms which also brings about areas of sea where
fish are protected from commercial fishing. During the operational phase, no significant negative impact
on fish is expected as the effects of the addition of artificial facilities bring about several positive effects.
Studies around Lillgrund wind farm showed that the site attracted fish to the area and that any negative
effects of the cables and noise was insignificant(Bergström, Sundqvist, & Bergström, 2012). It is noted,
however, that these results were based on a wind farm with fixed seabed foundations.
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During the decommissioning phase, an impact corresponding to that in the construction phase
may arise.
A final assessment of the impact on fish in the different phases will be conducted following the forth-
coming investigations and EIA.
The impact factors on fish from the export cable may arise in connection with laying as turbidity and
noise may arise. In relation to the operational phase, the main impact is the generation of
electromagnetic fields in the vicinity of the cables. An electromagnetic field is generated around the
export cable as it is around the internal cable network.
7.3.4 Birds
The impact on birds in the construction phase is considered to be low. In relation to the wind farm’s
total life span, the period of time is relatively short. However, consideration must be paid to birds during
the important breeding season.
During the operational phase, the establishment of an offshore wind farm can cause a loss of habitat
and displacement of birds. The farm’s presence can also cause barrier effects for migratory and foraging
birds. When birds have to detour around wind farms, there is greater energy loss. Offshore wind farms
can also create a collision risk for birds if they fly too close to the rotor blade(Isæus, Beltrán, Stensland
Isæus, Öhman, & Andresson-Li, 2022).
The impact on birds in the decommissioning phase is judged to correspond to that of the construction
phase.
A study of the presence of birds will be carried out within the framework of the forthcoming EIA.
7.3.5 Bats
If there are migrating or hunting bats in the project area, they may be affected by the establishment of
a wind farm.
To determine the impact on bats which may occur during the three different project phases, a survey
of the presence of bats will be conducted within the framework of the forthcoming EIA.
7.4 Fishing
The project area does not include any identified national interest for commercial fishing and the nearest
identified area for this is situation approx 3 km west of the project areas outer limit. According to known
information about the area, even the presence of fishing vessels is limited, see Figure 28.
During the construction and decommissioning phase, the accessibility of the area for fishing will be
limited.
Any pelagic fishing currently carried out in the project area may need to be restricted during the oper-
ational phase in the area where turbines, substations and moorings will be located. Since pelagic fishing
and angling do not impact the seabed cables, some fishing can continue to take place within the project
area.
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Based on currently available information, the impact on commercial fishing will not be significant.
Through dialogue with commercial fishing during the consultation process, the impact on commercial
fishing will be further investigated for the different phases of the project.
The export cable will be laid either on or in the seabed and thus protected from the impact of
commercial fishing. Depending on the fishing methods used within the area of the export cable, some
impact on commercial fishing may arise within a very limited area.
7.5 Marine culture value
In connection with the forthcoming investigations ahead of the EIA, a marine archaeological survey will
be conducted. If this survey reveals the presence of remains this will be handled according to current
legislation, alternatively these areas will be exempted from any establishment which may adversely af-
fect the marine cultural value.
For the export cable, a similar study as for the wind farm will be conducted.
7.6 Outdoor recreation and leisure
In the construction phase, some impact may arise due to the transports to the project area. The amount
of vessel traffic will increase and disturbance from that will depend on the time of year. In general, there
is more vessel traffic at sea due to outdoor recreation and increased boating activities. During the
construction phase there may be barriers and safety distances preventing recreational boats from
visiting the area.
In the operational phase the wind farm will be accessible to visitors in recreational boats. However,
Herkules is located in an area of little recreational boating activity since it is a long way from the coast
and the impact during the operational phase on outdoor recreation is therefore judged to be low or
insignificant.
During the decommissioning phase, an impact corresponding to that in the construction phase
may arise.
7.7 Mines and dumped ammunition
There is currently no known ordnance within the project boundaries. However, the project s adjacent
to an area where dumped chemical weapons have been found. There is an increased likelihood of
finding ordnance within the project area as the dumped material doesn’t always remain inside the
identified area. Chemical weapons can consist of mustard gas and arsenic which may begin to leak and
contaminate the water and seabed sediment.
To assess the actual impact of ordnance on the surroundings in planning, a survey of the presence of
ordnance will be conducted within the framework of the forthcoming EIA.
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7.8 Landscape
Experience of the landscape is largely subjective, driven by individual experiences, knowledge, attitude
and use of the landscape. The lie of sight analysis presented in Figure 34 shows the theoretical visibility
at sea level with respect to obstruction lighting and the highest point of the rotor blades. Obstruction
lighting on the surface will not be visible on Gotland. However, the tips of the turbine blades will be
visible from certain locations along the south east coast of Gotland.
The planned wind power development Herkules will involve the landscape changes from an undisturbed
horizon to a horizon with a mobile man-made development. Of course, visibility will be high for
recreational boats passing close to the wind farm.
Visualisation and animations are an important part of determining the impact on the landscape in the
forthcoming EIA.
7.9 Cumulative effects
Cumulative effects means those effects which arise when the impact from several sources interact with
each other. For the assessment of cumulative effects, already licensed activities within and around the
project area as well as the wind farm’s accompanying activities are included. Licensed and current
activities include shipping, wind power and commercial fishing. The current environmental status of the
represented or surrounding body of water will also be included in the assessment.
Which phase of the project other wind power projects in the vicinity are at is also of importance in
assessing the cumulative effects, as well as when the accompanying activities will be carried out in
relation to the construction of the wind farm. If two close farms carry out turbidity and/or noise creating
work in the construction or decommissioning phase at the same time, the cumulative effects will be
greater than if they are at different phases of their respective projects. Currently, with the existing
information available, the cumulative effect of other wind farms is very limited due to the large
distances. As far as is reasonable based on the phase of the projects, the cumulative effects of planned
wind power projects in the vicinity will be assessed in the forthcoming EIA.
Preventative protective measures reduce the risk of extensive cumulative effects. Even the soundscape
can be affected if there are two close wind farms which must also be included in the assessment.
The cumulative effects on fish, birds and commercial fishing during the operational phase will
be surveyed in the forthcoming surveys and investigations conducted in connection with the EIA.
Cumulative effects with regards the export cable will be considered in the forthcoming EIA.
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8 PLANNED INVESTIGATIONS
Comprehensive investigations and surveys will be conducted to establish the evidence required to
complete an EIA for the project. The investigations and surveys currently planned are described below.
8.1 Seabed investigations
Seabed investigations will be conducted for the project area. The aim is to gather information on the
conditions for establishing a wind farm in the area. The evidence will then be used to determine the
design of the wind farm and what is appropriate for the area.
In addition, the evidence will be used to determine the topography and sediment conditions of the
seabed. Sediment samples can be taken to establish the grain size, composition and oxygen content of
the seabed in order to map out the area. This can then be used to assess the conditions for seabed
vegetation and fauna. The survey will also form the basis of a survey of the marine archaeology and any
presence of ordnance.
8.2 Natural environment
To map the natural environment within the project area, investigations of seabed flora and fauna, fish
and invertebrates, marine mammals, birds and bats must be conducted. With the aid of this information,
an assessment can then be made of the possibility of life and any risk of spreading environmental
hazardous substances.
8.3 Cultural heritage
To map remains within the project area, marine geological surveys must be conducted. Evidence from
the geophysical investigations can also be used as evidence for this survey.
8.4 Other surveys
Other surveys and investigations which may be relevant are listed below:
• Noise survey
• Fishing survey (Commercial fishing)
• Aviation risk analysis
• Marine traffic risk analysis
• Landscape analysis
• Natura 2000 survey
• Survey of any cumulative effects
• Survey of the impact of environmental quality standards
• Visualisations and animations
• Meteorological investigation
• Investigate the water quality in the area (lack of oxygen in the area?)
• Survey of presence of remaining ordnance, UXO, in the area
• Current modelling and distribution calculations
• Weather measurements, including wind and waves
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9 RISKS AND SAFETY
There are risks in establishing a large-scale offshore wind-farm which involve high safety requirements.
Safety is therefore prioritised across all phases. The different risks which can arise can be categorised
into different groups such as risk to human health and environmental risk.
Risk to human health can occur in connection to work which emits high noise, handling electrical
equipment or heavy lifting. The environmental risks which can occur include the negative impact which
can arise from establishing an offshore wind farm. This can include oil or other chemical release,
distribution of seabed sediment and high levels of submarine noise which can impact marine life. In
addition to these risks, the project area will be investigated for ammunition and other ordnance which
may cause a specific risk. This will be mapped in the geophysical investigations.
Risks related to the location of the area with regards to shipping may arise.
10 LOCAL BENEFIT
10.1 Socio-economic benefits
The benefit of wind power is about much more than just energy and the environment. There is the
possibility of positive effects both within business and civil society. For example, the socio-economic
benefit in the form of employment opportunities, high levels of education and the resulting increased
attractiveness. Therefore, it is important that decision makers see the whole picture and have the
opportunity to evaluate all the benefits which can arise in relation to intrusion and protective measures.
The cost-benefit balance for different target groups/bodies is an important aspect to consider in
decision making.
10.1.1 Employment
Employment may be created within the wind power branch from two main areas. Construction of wind
power strengthens the manufacturing industry and creates jobs. Interaction between the different
parts, for example by sharing skills between companies, is strengthened if the domestic wind power
market develops well. Offshore wind power has been shown to be more labour intensive than onshore
wind power. This applies throughout the life cycle i.e., planning construction, installation and operation
and maintenance. In addition to increased demand for goods and services within the region of the wind
power development, this creates a direct increase in the number of employment opportunities.
10.1.2 Technical learning
Supporting offshore wind power creates a positive dissemination of technical learning. As the market
for offshore wind is international, the knowledge gained by constructing offshore wind farms can be
shared between and within countries. On a global level, Sweden can help other countries to reduce their
emissions by sharing knowledge on renewable electricity production. In the long term as market players
learn more about the technology, costs also decrease which in turn contributes to greater socio-eco-
nomic stability.
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10.1.3 Infrastructure
Often, infrastructure is expanded and improved in areas where wind power is established. New roads,
port expansion, electricity grid and fibre arranged in conjunction with the development bring positive
external effect such as increased communication and transport opportunities in the local
community(Blom, Eriksson, Hillman, & Zandén Kjellén, 2020).
10.1.4 Calculations
The socio-economic calculation is based on a wind farm close to shore with a total of 50 wind turbines
and an output of 10MW.
Planning phase
A positive annual financial contribution is made to the local and regional community as a whole, a large
share of which is also passed onto the state. At the local level, this depends on how many people live in
the municipality (tax base) during the planning phase. If planning takes seven years, this would give an
overall effect of around 43 Mkr in total and approx 10.8 Mkr to the local community. The annual overall
employment effect during planning in the report’s calculations is 14 full time jobs when direct and
indirect jobs are included.
Construction
The opportunities for the local community to benefit from revenue during construction are, in our view,
significant as ‘accompanying works’ covered by the supplier’s commitment must take place on site and
should be deliverable by existing and start-up businesses - such as electrical work, security and, not
least, continual boat servicing. If preliminary work/construction were to last three years, this would have
a total impact of just over 100 million SEK, of which just over 25 million SEK would be directed to the
local community. The annual overall employment effect during preliminary work in the report’s
calculations is 95 full time jobs when direct and indirect jobs are included.
Operation and maintenance
As the facilities for operation and maintenance must be nearby to be able to implement measure quickly
while maintaining continuous service, the opportunity for the local community to benefit from the social
values created is very large. Several sources expect as much as 90 % of the total value for operation and
maintenance to benefit the local area. This means that people affected probably live in the local
community, that the boat service is always accessible, that monitoring is continuous. The annual overall
employment effect with regards operation and maintenance is calculated as 62 full time jobs when
direct and indirect jobs are included(IUC Sverige AB, 2020).
11 SCHEDULE
Consultation will be conducted between autumn 2022 and spring 2023. After that the investigations
and surveys which will form the basis of the environmental assessment as part of the forthcoming EIA
will begin.
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12 PRELIMINARY CONTENT OF THE
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
ASSESSMENT
On conclusion of the consultation process, an environmental impact assessment (EIA) will be carried
out as a part of the environmental assessment process. The EIA forms a central document in which all
environmental aspects are analysed and assessed, both direct and indirect environmental
consequences during construction, operation and decommissioning. In addition, the EIA will contain
data on the site location, design, scope and other properties which may be significant for the
environmental assessment. To prevent, hinder and counter negative environmental effects of the
activity, the planned measures to be applied will be presented in the EIA.
Below is a summary list of content proposed for inclusion in the EIA.
• Non-technical summary
• Introduction and background
• Location
o Alternative location and implementation
o Zero option
• National maritime plan
o What this looks like for the project area
• Environmental quality standards
• Geology
o Types of sediment and sediment processes
o Presence of hazardous substance in sediment
o Diffusion models
• Underwater noise generated by the activity
• Impact on current conditions caused by the activity
• Any impact from electromagnetic radiation
• Potential impact on types of nature and species identified in the nearby Natura 2000 area
• Current description of the marine biology within the project area
o Indirect and direct impact on existing species such as fish, birds and marine mammals.
• Impact on conflicting interests such as commercial fishing and outdoor recreation
• Cumulative environmental impact of other activities
• Protective and precautionary measures to minimise negative environmental impact
• Proposed content of the control programme
• Choice of technique and method for preliminary investigations and civil engineering works
• Restoration after decommissioning
• Schedule
o For the project
o Any time restrictions during ecologically sensitive periods
In addition to the above, the EIA will include the consultation report and technical description. The
layout of the forthcoming EIA is proposed to follow the same structure as this consultation document.
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dokument.lansstyrelsen.se/gemensamt/geodata/ATOM/ATOM_raa.RAA_RI_kulturmiljovard_MB4kap2.xml
Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (2022). National Parks Retrieved from: https://gpt.vic-
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Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (2022). Naturreservat. Retrieved from: https://gpt.vic-
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Swedish National Heritage Board Swedish National Heritage Board open data. Retrieved from
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SGI Marine Geology Cartographers. Retrieved from https://apps.sgu.se/kartvisare/kartvisare-
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