Successful offshore wind development hinges on far more than turbine technology and marine engineering. Scotland’s fast-approaching net zero targets mean that it has never been as important for the relationship between offshore wind developers and onshore agricultural communities to be mutually positive and collaborative. 

And as strong communication between stakeholders is a critical factor to getting projects online, developers must prioritise building and nurturing these relationships from the very start of renewable energy developments. This is why biosecurity measures for onshore ground engineering has the capacity to deepen trust between and provide assurances to local communities if done correctly. It is not only an essential phase in such projects, but also a mark of respect to the area and heritage.

Thistle Wind Partners’ (TWP) 1GW Bowdun offshore wind farm project off Aberdeenshire is a prime example of how careful and considered attention to onshore engineering requirements and agricultural concerns can enhance this critical part of early project outcomes, positive stakeholder relationships and long-term project success.

Agricultural awareness

To determine feasibility, and ensure efficiency, offshore wind farms need to sensitively consider the environment – whether that’s onshore or offshore. Factoring in agricultural impacts can be the difference between a positive or disappointing start to the project. 

The economic damage from soil-borne diseases can be devastating to farming communities. A single contamination incident can render fields unproductive for specific crops for several years, threatening farms and local food security.

The risks are particularly acute in Scotland, where specialised crops like oil seed rape are vulnerable to diseases such as clubroot. Therefore, when wind infrastructure work requires moving equipment and personnel across multiple agricultural properties, the potential for cross-contamination becomes significant.

Early engagement and collaboration are key

TWP’s Bowdun project demonstrates how early consultation with landowners can reveal concerns that might otherwise not have been detected until it is too late. 

Beginning in 2023, comprehensive discussions with landowners along the landfall, cable route and substation areas included site walkovers, face-to-face discussions and detailed questionnaires designed to gain a thorough understanding of specific agricultural needs and concerns.

This engagement enables technical challenges to be flagged and resolved before they cause any impact to project timelines. Specifically, biosecurity concerns require early identification because mitigation measures often need to be integrated into the fundamental project plans.

One such example is biosecurity testing, the cost of which is minimal compared to the potential expense of an outbreak. Thistle Wind Partners consulted the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC) for specialised guidance on specific biosecurity threats including blackleg, clubroot and potato cyst nematodes (PCN). 

The results of extensive testing on key onshore sites conducted in June and July 2024 revealed that a significant area of the site tested positive for clubroot - a finding that would have had significant implications if discovered after work had begun. The development team used these findings to enhance their protocols, specifically to address clubroot risk.

Protocol in action

To stop diseases spreading across the land, strict cleaning and movement protocols were then developed and implemented to mitigate these contamination risks for the Bowdun project. Careful planning established separate compounds, equipment and crews specifically designated for ‘clean’ and ‘dirty’ fields. Working closely with stakeholders and contractors, the work programme was structured specifically to minimise cross-contamination risks.

Digital accountability systems also proved valuable. A simple WhatsApp group where photographs of cleaned personal protective equipment (PPE) and machinery were posted at the beginning and end of each shift created accountability and provided peace of mind. Multiple health, safety and environment (HSE) audits confirmed strict adherence to the protocols. 

When properly implemented, biosecurity measures don’t delay project timelines or create operational difficulties. In fact, the business case for robust measures extends beyond risk management. By adopting a consultative and collaborative approach to building relationships with local communities and landowners, developers can have honest dialogue – safe in the knowledge that everyone’s interests are being considered. 

TWPs’ Bowdun project demonstrates this principle in action. The positive response from local Aberdeenshire landowners highlights the positive impact of investment and engagement in agricultural protection at the start of wind projects. 

The future is collaborative

And as Scotland continues its journey towards reaching net zero, onshore biosecurity protocols for offshore wind projects will remain a vital project consideration when it comes to protecting agriculture, caring for environments and nurturing community relationships. Approaches that meaningfully address community concerns and respect the land represent a ‘gold standard’ for responsible, people-minded renewable energy developments.

By recognising biosecurity as a central component of project planning, Scotland’s renewable energy sector can continue to develop in harmony with its agricultural heritage - creating sustainable energy solutions that protect both environmental and economic futures.