A standard to drive best practice in environmental impact assessment (EIA) for offshore renewable projects has been launched by BSI.
The standard, PD 6900, covers all aspects of the EIA process, from screening and scoping to consultation and communication, says BSI.
The standards body developed 6900 with Renewable UK, the Marine Management Organisation and Marine Scotland, as well as several companies, including ABPMer, Renewable Energy Services and Scottish Power.
Authors of 6900 researched recent EIAs on offshore renewable projects to identify good or innovative practice and processes to avoid. The standard includes case studies, templates and engagement plans.
BSI hopes that the standard will help project developers and EIA consultants to commission, screen, scope and execute future assessments at lower cost and in a shorter timescale.
David Fatscher, head of market development for sustainability at BSI, said: “The development and delivery of standards is important for driving the industrialisation of offshore renewable energy.
“Appropriate standards create a foundation for growth based upon recognised benchmarks of quality and promote UK competitiveness by reducing barriers to international trade.”
