Abstract
In accordance with Section 105(02) of The Energy Act 2004, and in order to discharge requirement 8 of the Rampion Offshore Wind Farm Order 2014, Rampion Offshore Wind Limited (ROW) is required to prepare an Offshore Decommissioning Programme for the Rampion offshore wind farm. This document constitutes the preliminary Decommissioning Programme for the offshore elements of the Project and was submitted to DECC for approval in 2015 prior to the start of the construction of the wind farm.
The programme is informed and supported by the Environmental Impact Assessment carried out for the Rampion Project. The Environmental Statement was submitted as part of the Project’s application for development consent under the Planning Act 2008, which was submitted to the Secretary of State in March 2013. The Environmental Statement provides detailed analysis of the baseline physical, biological and human environment. The assessment of the impact of the project on receptors and stakeholders takes into account decommissioning provisions that are consistent with those presented in this document.
In considering appropriate decommissioning provisions, ROW has sought to adhere to the following key principles:
• No harm to people
• Consideration of the rights and needs of legitimate users of the sea
• Minimise environmental impact
• Promote sustainable development
• Adhere to the Polluter Pays Principle
• Maximise the reuse of materials
• Commercial viability
• Practical integrity