Expertise

• Engineering
• Simulation
• Construction
• Verification and testing
• Certification

European Sea Station Buoy

We have developed a concept called the European Sea Station Buoy (ESS Buoy). Our goal is to create an integrated platform that stays state-of-the-art for decades to come. We have created a roadmap to keep up with the latest developments in the field of monitoring, energy generation and transmission. The project is part of the Dutch governmental vision for presence at and surveillance of the North Sea.

To efficiently and safely use the sea while facilitating many activities as part of the energy transition, we envision a robust digital infrastructure. In addition to using existing infrastructure and new fixed platforms, deploying buoys will result in full and flexible presence.

The primary functions of the ESS Buoy are: 1) monitoring of activity at sea, environmental conditions, and ecology; and 2) connectivity, which includes sending real-time data and providing network functions. The ESS Buoy will be equipped with autonomous power generation. The platform can accommodate many possible monitoring set-ups.

Azifarm

Aqitec installed a special buoy on the North Sea. The Azifarm. This is a floating and lightweight structure for cultivation of seaweed. The system is easy and safe to deploy. In order to minimize the need to go out to sea, the buoy is equipped with GPS, sensors, cameras and telemetry. Hence there is always a good view on the condition of the Azifarm and the seaweed. The first six-metre high waves have passed by, and this free test – thanks North Sea! – has produced beautiful images and data.

Why are we doing this? We would like to use our knowledge to demonstrate new technology and gain a better understanding of the possibilities for sustainable offshore seaweed cultivation. Why is this important? Sustainably cultivated seaweed has great potential as an alternative to land-based crops. New technology is needed to safely and affordably farm seaweed at sea.

With thanks to Proeftuin op de Noordzee, North Sea Farmers and the Duurzaamheidsfabriek.