This report presents the findings from the first phase of a two-part study commissioned by WavEC to Instituto Hidrográfico. The study was supported by two oceanographic surveys carried out aboard the NRP “D. Carlos I” (March 2023) and NRP “Andrómeda” (October 2023), using acoustic data collection and physical sampling techniques to assess the seabed’s geomorphology, sedimentary layer composition, and overall seafloor characteristics.
Key results include:
- Stable seabed: Predominantly smooth with a gentle 0.34° slope, except for a localized rocky outcrop and small geological depressions.
- Surface sediments: A consistent sedimentary cover, ranging from fine silt to very coarse sand.
- Subsurface layers: Three distinct sedimentary layers were identified, with the top layer averaging ~13 m thickness
These results play a crucial role in the engineering, design, and deployment of floating offshore renewable energy projects, ensuring that mooring systems and foundation designs are optimized for seabed conditions.
This study is part of the EU-SCORES project, which aims to demonstrate the complementarity and co-location potential of offshore wind, wave energy, and offshore solar technologies, supporting the development of integrated multi-use energy solutions.
Read the full report here.
