An extensive programme of ground investigations across the Viking Wind Farm site has been completed successfully. The main works by specialist drilling company BAM Ritchies and local sub-contractors Frank L Johnston (FLJ) involved a large number of exploratory boreholes and trial pits across the proposed wind farm area.
The planned scope of work was completed within a tight four-month timescale, much to the credit of all involved. The drilling cores and all other data will now be analysed to aid ongoing wind farm design work.
A Viking Energy spokesperson said: “BAM Ritchies came in at short notice to do this challenging work and they executed it impressively, on time and without serious incident.
“The weather was not always kind to the teams, but, even still, they managed to complete the job as required, aided significantly by the effective use of the helicopter provided by PDG Aviation Services.
“We are also very grateful for the co-operation received from landowners, crofters and local residents during the ground investigations and vehicle movements relating to the works.”
Towards the end of the ground investigations, the six temporary met masts which have recorded wind speeds across the site for many years were taken down and all sections removed from site by the provider Dulas.
In the spirit of cooperation and teamwork, BAM Ritchies helped Dulas by allowing masts in the remoter locations to be removed by helicopter after access was found to be difficult following poor weather.
The Viking spokesperson said: “Dulas maintained these masts for many years, helping Viking Energy obtain a very comprehensive wind dataset for the site. It was decided this was the best time to remove the masts and having the assistance of the helicopter was a big help in completing the work safely and with minimal environmental impact.”