Renewable Energy
Across Europe Governments are committed to investing in renewable energy and have set plans for renewable sources to provide 20% of all energy by 2020. Solar is being seen as a major replacement energy source and there are now government schemes being introduced to encourage the uptake of solar PV panels by providing a guaranteed payment for each unit of electricity they generate, contributing to meeting the 2020 CO2 emission reduction targets. In addition to solar energy, wind, wave and tidal power are all expected to play a significant role in meeting European carbon reduction targets. Onshore wind continues to grow steadily, whilst the last few years has seen rapid expansion of offshore wind capacity across Europe. Wave and tidal energy are also attracting significant investment and will see further commercialisation and capacity expansion over the coming years.
Blom UK provide cost effective survey and mapping solutions for Renewable Energy projects. From initial feasibility studies through to post construction monitoring, Blom can assist at every stage of the development process by providing accurate environmental and topographic data.
One example of Blom's work in the Renewable Energy sector is Solar Potential Mapping. Solar PV panels need specific conditions to perform at a level that makes installation both financially and environmentally viable. The host roofs must be assessed against a number of key criteria to ensure that the specific conditions are met; these include the orientation, size, pitch, elevation and any shading caused by surrounding objects (trees, buildings and terrain). This investigation of building suitability can involve individual site visits by a Surveyor which may prove costly; however Blom can now assess the potential of individual building roofs using a new technology called Solar Potential Mapping. This solution allows companies and individuals to accurately assess the solar potential of roofs from the desktop, reducing the requirement for costly site visits.
Renewable energy development sites can often be in remote or inaccessible locations. Blom’s aerial surveying and mapping services can offer rapid, accurate acquisition of survey data reducing the need for deployment of ground staff, reducing costs, saving time and reducing health and safety risks.
Application
- Assessing potential of roofs for solar panels
- Feasibility studies
- Post construction monitoring
- Environmental Impact Assessments
- Wind farm design
Products & Services