Dong Energy has selected HiDef Aerial Surveying to carry out high resolution digital video aerial surveys at the 258MW Burbo Bank Extension offshore wind farm in the UK.

The work covers the Liverpool Bay area and the 40km² extension site. It will focus on how red throated divers may be affected by the project.

The surveys are expected to continue into the operational phase of the extension project.

HiDef commercial director Kit Hawkins said: “HiDef is delighted to be involved with the Burbo Bank Extension project, especially given its importance to the UK offshore wind sector.

“We are excited by the possibility of increasing the evidence base regarding the interaction of marine wildlife with offshore wind farms.

“As a company, HiDef strongly shares DONG Energy’s vision that offshore wind is a central part of the future British energy mix, offering long-term energy security to the UK.”

The extension project will be located 8km off the UK coast in Liverpool Bay. It will feature 32 MHI Vestas V164-8MW wind turbines.

Meanwhile, the extension facility will be located next to the existing 90MW Burbo Bank wind farm sited on the Burbo Flats in Liverpool. This is expected to be commissioned in 2017.

After completion, the Burbo Bank Extension offshore wind farm will generate enough energy for about 240,000 households.