wiredinUSA September 2014

US seeks advice

PMSS America Inc, the US division of global renewableenergyconsultingfirm TÜV SÜD PMSS, supported by submarine cable specialist Red Penguin Associates Ltd of the UK, has been selected to provide strategic guidance on cable spacing for US offshore wind projects to the US department of the interior and bureau of safety and environmental enforcement. With a number of US offshore wind initiatives already under development and progressing to financial close, North American regulatory authorities require a clear understanding of the regulatory and environmental parameters associated with the installation and use of offshore transmission and collection (inter-array) system cables. Under the terms of the deal, TÜV SÜD PMSS will draw upon the technical experience of Red Penguin Associates

on international interconnector, subsea cabling and transmission projects, working directly with developers and regulators to research and identify best practices for US offshorewind submarine cable spacing guidance. This collaboration will form the basis of a department of the interior report to determine and assess the best possible cable spacing for transmission and inter-array connectors – informing and educating the critical investment, insurance and regulatory communities. Chris Sturgeon, managing director of Red Penguin, said: “Our experience has shown the importance of bringing together, at the earliest opportunity, the various strands of regulation, engineering and environmental management necessary for successful control of inherent risk on submarine cable projects.”

wiredInUSA - September 2014

26