Bermuda’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) established a clear direction for the island’s energy transition, but significant questions remained around site location, connection routes, pricing, and the tendering process. Delivering offshore wind in Bermuda presented additional complexity due to environmental sensitivities, challenging seabed conditions, aviation safety requirements, and the island’s exposure to hurricanes. The project was also the first of its kind in the region and relatively small in capacity compared to typical offshore wind developments.

Feasibility, procurement and delivery

As a trusted advisor to the Regulatory Authority, our team supported a series of activities to progress the offshore wind project from concept to procurement.

Using our GIS expertise, we carried out siting and pre-feasibility studies to identify potential locations, considering technical, environmental, practical, and technological factors. Both fixed foundation and floating wind options were assessed. We also identified potential interconnection routes, taking into account power system simulations alongside practical and environmental constraints.

We produced detailed bottom-up CAPEX estimates for each location and technology option to inform future updates to the IRP and to manage expectations for subsequent auctions. These estimates reflected industry benchmarks as well as Bermuda-specific cost factors, including workforce, freight, and handling costs.

To support procurement, we designed reverse auction rules aligned with existing legal and regulatory requirements. This included clarifying roles and responsibilities, defining the steps of future auction processes, and establishing appropriate governance frameworks.

Recognising the rapid evolution of offshore wind technologies, we carried out several updates to the initial studies to refine cost assumptions and technology options over time. We also developed a detailed project plan covering activities from inception through to commissioning. To address the project’s unique risks, we engaged with industry stakeholders to identify key implementation risks and develop tailored mitigation measures.

We continue to oversee the implementation of the risk mitigation plan, including public and industry engagement, procurement of geophysical studies, and delivery of a bankable wind measurement campaign. In addition, we act as the appointed technical advisor to the regulator for the selection of an offshore wind developer, supporting tender documentation, bidder engagement, and evaluation of responses.

A clear route to delivery

Our pragmatic approach established a clear and structured pathway to deliver offshore wind in Bermuda in the near future. Despite the wide range of environmental, technical, and regulatory constraints, we identified a promising site that achieved reasonable consensus across stakeholder groups. The study also identified potential for an additional 60 MW of capacity should future demand require it.

By identifying key risks early and advising on proportionate mitigation measures, we supported strong developer engagement during the first round of auctions. The procurement process is now progressing towards completion.

Thomas Amram Head of Clean Power Consultancy

This project was completed by Ricardo plc, now part of WSP.