Abstract
FaB Test offers a uniquely pre-consented test site to marine energy convertor (MEC) device developers seeking a short term test site for eligible devices / sub-systems.
See document FHC/FT/104 Description of Site Characteristics and Eligible Test Installations.
Falmouth Harbour Commissioners (FHC) hold a Marine Licence issued by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) which licenses certain MEC development test works according to set procedures and conditions. Similarly, FHC has a seabed lease agreement with The Crown Estate (TCE) allowing the use of the seabed, again according to certain procedures and conditions. The procedures detailed within this document reflect the agreements described above and allow FHC to allocate test berths within the site according to the details contained within the pre-existing agreements and licences.
The FaBTest site is administered by Falmouth Harbour Commissioners supported by a steering group with representatives from industry, academia, agencies and other stake holders. The steering group is divided into two sub-groups, a core group further named as the ‘Regulatory Body’ and the industrial group. The task of the steering group is to make strategic decisions related to the utilisation and success of the FaBTest site.
The Regulatory Body has two permanent members, Falmouth Harbour Commissioners (FHC) and the University of Exeter (UoE). The specific task of the Regulatory Body is to implement a diligence process to establish that each specific FaBTest installation proposal meets with the requirements according to the Marine Licence, FHC regulations, The Crown Estate (TCE) lease and good practice in accordance with stakeholder expectations. In so doing the Regulatory Body advises and informs the decision of FHC to approve or decline an application for a berth at FaBTest. The diligence process includes reviews of the following:
- Application form
- General overview of the project
- Engineering assessment & general arrangement drawing
- Independent validation of the mooring design
- Quality, Health, Safety and Environment (QHSE) management plan
- Project execution plan
- Decommissioning plan
- Emergency response plan
- Navigational risk assessment
- Seabed habitat risk assessment
- Environmental risk assessment
- Proposal for noise monitoring
- Description of any deviation from the Specification for Navigational Safety
- Insurances
- Security bonds
The diligence process is required for each specific installation and is conducted through an assessment meeting chaired by FHC. The Regulatory Body assessment meeting will be held within three weeks of receipt of a full application to berth at FaBTest.
In addition to the Regulatory Body members, an independent representative from the local office of the MMO is invited to attend each Regulatory Body assessment meeting. Based on the outcome of the assessment meeting, FHC will authorise or refuse a berthing application. In the case of a refusal, details of any deficiencies will be reported back to the applicant to assist with a subsequent re-submission.