Scotland’s energy industry is set to benefit from the launch of new technology to monitor ocean currents.
For the first time ever, live information about the speed and direction of Scotland’s ocean currents is readily available.
Marine Scotland’s Brahan project, which is supported by energy companies including Nexen and BP, uses high frequency radar technologies to monitor ocean currents up to 200km offshore.
Researchers say the information will not only help scientific research but benefit the offshore oil and gas sector, search and rescue operations and the fishing industry.
“The Brahan Project is an exciting demonstration of how cutting edge technology can help us monitor our seas both to understand them in a better way and to help us sustainably and safely use their abundant resources,” said Scottish fisheries minister Richard Lochhead.
The technology, known as the Long Range SeaSonde HF Radar System, was manufactured by CODAR Ocean Sensors of California. This is the first time it has been used in the UK.
It has initially been installed at two stations – one at North Ronaldsay lighthouse in Orkney and the other at Sumburgh Head lighthouse in Shetland.
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