Nadara commissioned Aker Solutions to conduct electrical studies for the Bellrock floating offshore wind farm, a planned 1.8 GW project off the coast of Scotland.
The consulting firm Entr and Unitech Power Systems, both linked to Aker Solutions, will analyze the transmission system from offshore generation to the future connection with the onshore grid.
Bellrock defines its electrical transmission system
The study will allow the development of an initial electrical infrastructure concept for Bellrock; the objective is to compare different configurations and select a solution that balances performance, cost, schedule, and technical feasibility.
To do this, the teams will review the cabling between wind turbines, the marine and onshore substations, the export cables and the integration of the park with the electrical grid.
This work will also provide estimates on costs, execution times, and supply requirements. This information will be used to prepare for future acquisitions and reduce uncertainties before investment decisions are made.
Aker Solutions will evaluate several configurations
Aker Solutions will participate through Entr, its consulting division, and Unitech Power Systems, a subsidiary specializing in electrical systems engineering.
Entr will contribute experience in the execution of marine projects and data obtained in real operations, while Unitech Power Systems will focus on the technical analysis of the power infrastructure.
The combination of these two capabilities will allow for the study of various electrical transmission alternatives for Bellrock. Each option will be evaluated based on its robustness, efficiency, and ability to adapt to the subsequent phases of the project.
A 1.8 GW floating wind project
Bellrock is planned to be about 120 kilometers off the coast of Aberdeenshire, and with its projected capacity of 1.8 GW, it could become a relevant asset for renewable energy generation in Scotland and the United Kingdom.
Furthermore, its development could foster the expansion of the supply chain associated with floating offshore wind energy. This sector requires platforms, cables, anchoring systems, electrical equipment, and specialized services.
Unlike parks built on fixed foundations, floating projects can be developed in deeper waters. However, they also require precise electrical planning due to distances, structural movement, and marine conditions.
Early design aims to reduce costs and risks
David Robertson, portfolio manager at Nadara, indicated that the study will allow for technical decisions to be made from an early stage. He explained that the participation of Aker Solutions, Entr, and Unitech Power Systems brings together experience in offshore projects and advanced electrical engineering expertise.
Early definition of the transmission system will be crucial for comparing costs and implementation schedules. It will also help build a more solid technical foundation for future purchasing and investment decisions.
For her part, Dorthe Kirkeby, Vice President of Ocean and Wind Energy at Entr, pointed out that transmission systems must be defined in advance to manage the technical risks of projects of this scale.
He also highlighted that initial engineering can facilitate the advancement of floating wind turbine developments towards their commercial phases.
Bellrock is making progress on permits and engineering
The application for authorization for the Bellrock wind farm development area was submitted in April 2026. The file is currently under evaluation.
While the review is underway, Nadara continues working on the design of the marine and land-based infrastructure. These tasks include engineering studies, site selection, technical surveys, and dialogue with stakeholders.
After obtaining the necessary permits, the project will need to move towards authorization of the transfer, preparation of acquisitions and the final investment decision.
The study commissioned to Aker Solutions will help define Bellrock’s future electrical architecture and will serve as a reference for the following design and contracting stages.
Source and photo: Agcc.co.uk
