Subsea cable survey and monopile inspection for Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind

Integrated offshore survey and inspection to support long-term planning

UTEC, Acteon’s Geo-services business line, delivered a full campaign of geophysical surveys and subsea inspections covering two turbine monopiles, one inter-array cable and one export cable. Using multibeam echosounders (MBES), we acquired bathymetric and backscatter data to assess seabed change, sediment mobility and the condition of scour protection systems.

To optimise cost and reduce mobilisation time, we used Dominion Energy’s long-term chartered crew transfer vessel (CTV) for both survey and crew transport. Compact remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) were launched from existing davits on the monopile platforms, enabling us to work efficiently without adding offshore assets.

Our team carried out general visual inspection (GVI) and subsea cathodic protection (CP) assessments on the monopiles to evaluate marine growth, coating integrity and anode degradation. Analysis focused on known risk zones, including horizontal direct drilling (HDD) punch-out sites and cable crossings.

All data was uploaded to our iCUE integrity portal, giving the customer a clear, real-time view of risks, inspection results and maintenance priorities. This insight-driven approach helped validate asset conditions, reduce uncertainty and guide decisions for the upcoming 176-turbine expansion.

Innovations in action

• High-resolution MBES technology – acquired bathymetry and backscatter data to assess seabed change.
• Compact ROVs for GVI and CP – deployed via davit to reduce setup time and vessel risk.
• iCUE digital platform – centralised survey data, enabling dashboard visibility, anomaly tracking and KPI benchmarking.
• Targeted data interpretation – prioritised commercial drivers such as exposed cable sections, anode health and sediment transport for future design and maintenance planning.

The result

We delivered a reliable, insight-led inspection package that helped Dominion Energy assess asset performance and plan the next phase of its offshore wind expansion.

By combining smart vessel use with structured digital delivery, we reduced offshore risk, improved coordination and ensured accurate reporting across all key sites. This partner-led approach demonstrated how we harness technology, data and operational expertise to optimise safety, extend asset life and unlock commercial value across the offshore energy lifecycle.