Atlas Wind has secured a permit from the California Coastal Commission to conduct essential surveys in state waters near Morro Bay. This approval, granted by a 10-1 vote, allows Atlas Wind to commence sediment sampling and utilize sound surveys to explore the seafloor. The permit is valid for two years, during which Atlas Wind aims to gather data to inform its offshore wind energy project.
The survey operations will focus on an area northwest of Morro Bay Harbor, extending from 0.25 miles offshore to the boundary with federal waters, approximately 3 nautical miles away. Notably, these surveys will exclude activities within or near the Morro Bay Harbor, ensuring minimal disruption to local maritime activities.
Holly Wyer, senior environmental scientist at the Coastal Commission, highlighted that these surveys are pivotal for Atlas Wind’s plans to deploy underwater cables to transmit electricity to shore. The data collected will also guide decisions on where to position floating platforms for wind turbines, which are crucial steps in harnessing wind energy off California’s coast.
Atlas Wind, a subsidiary of the global energy giant Equinor, has initiated similar surveys in its federal lease area since April. Two other corporations, Golden State Wind and Even Keel Wind, hold leases in the expansive Morro Bay Wind Energy Area, underscoring a concerted effort to harness California’s offshore wind potential.
However, not all voices have welcomed this development. The local REACT Alliance members voiced concerns during the Coastal Commission meeting, citing potential disruptions to fisheries and marine life. Despite these concerns, Commissioner Katie Rice emphasized the broader context of climate change mitigation, positioning offshore wind as a crucial component of California’s renewable energy strategy.
The survey methodology involves advanced technology from Ocean Infinity, employing multibeam echo sounders, side scan sonars, and sub-bottom profilers. These tools emit varying frequencies of sound pulses tailored to minimize impact on marine life while effectively mapping the seafloor terrain. The surveys will be monitored closely to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and mitigation measures.
To address environmental and cultural concerns, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians will collaborate closely with Atlas Wind, reviewing survey data in real time to safeguard cultural resources. Additionally, stringent mitigation measures include Marine Wildlife Monitoring and Mitigation Plans, oil spill contingency plans, and protocols for interacting with marine wildlife, ensuring responsible project implementation.
