DNV completes first-ever verification of stage 3 floating LiDAR unit in Latin America

DNV has achieved a major milestone by successfully completing the first verification of a stage 3 floating LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) system in Latin America. This test involved advanced equipment from Fugro and took place off the coast of Porto do Açu in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

For 55 days, DNV carried out detailed tests on the Fugro SEAWATCH® buoy, equipped with a Zephir ZX300M LiDAR unit. The floating LiDAR system was compared to a reference LiDAR unit onshore, widely trusted by the industry. The goal was to check how well the floating system measures wind and metocean data (like waves and currents) in tough offshore conditions. This test is important for offshore wind farms, as accurate wind measurements help design, build, and fund these projects.

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Traditional methods of measuring wind, such as using offshore meteorological towers, are very expensive and complex. This has increased interest in cost-effective alternatives like floating LiDAR systems. DNV’s tests showed that the floating LiDAR system provided highly accurate wind speed and direction data, making it a reliable tool for offshore wind projects in Brazil. This verification is a big step forward in helping Brazil tap into its offshore wind energy potential and grow its renewable energy sector.

The results of this verification show that floating LiDAR technology can provide a cheaper and more reliable way to collect vital data for wind farm projects. This is an important moment for the future of offshore wind energy in Latin America, especially as countries look to use more clean and sustainable energy sources.

Natalia Signorelli, Metocean Consultancy Lead at Fugro, expressed her excitement about the achievement. She said, “Verifying the floating LiDAR system in Brazilian waters is a big moment for offshore wind energy in the region. Working with DNV allowed us to prove that our technology is reliable and accurate, which will open doors for future projects.”

Santiago Blanco, Executive Vice President & Regional Director for Latin America at DNV, also highlighted the importance of this event. He stated, “DNV’s role as advisors is critical for guiding organizations through the energy transition, especially with a focus on sustainability. Our work in verifying the floating LiDAR system in Brazil shows our dedication to helping advance offshore wind energy in Latin America.”

Leonardo Barriatto, Product Manager at DNV, added, “We are proud to have partnered with Fugro on this project. It highlights the potential of floating LiDAR technology for offshore wind energy in the region. Our independent verification ensures that this solution meets the highest standards, supporting the growth of renewable energy in Latin America.”

This successful test proves that floating LiDAR systems can play a key role in the future of renewable energy in Brazil and across Latin America, making wind farms more accessible and affordable to develop. The use of advanced, reliable technology like this will be crucial in helping the region reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and shift toward a greener future.