The submarine cable that was minimize off Vesterålen in 2021 is with out energy once more – nobody is aware of why

Since then, the marine observatory has been repaired, however just lately the screens at, amongst others, the Institute of Marine Analysis went black once more. The signs have been the identical as in 2021, however whether or not the cable has been minimize once more, the marine scientists can’t reply.

– We are able to neither verify nor deny a break within the cable, says communications director Marit Hauge on the Institute of Marine Analysis to Bladet Vesterålen.

The Lofoten-Vesterålen Sea Observatory (LoVe) is an infrastructure for analysis and monitoring of the ocean space. The system was established in 2013, when the Institute of Marine Analysis in collaboration with Equinor deployed the primary node exterior Bø in Vesterålen.

Within the revised state finances in 2022, the Institute of Marine Analysis obtained NOK 58.3 million to restore the cable. The cable gives scientists with worthwhile data and pictures from the depths of the ocean. It additionally gives data on, amongst different issues, submarine exercise within the space.

No energy

– We lack electrical energy at LoVe, however we aren’t positive why, says Hauge.

Researcher Geir Pedersen on the Institute of Marine Analysis tells Bladet Vesterålen that the facility disappeared from the cable on 9 Might, some three years following it final went black.

He explains that troubleshooting one of these system is sophisticated, however that they’re now finishing up systematic investigations.

Pedersen believes the cable is now safer than earlier than 2021.

Have no idea

– We monitor the ship visitors over the cable, however crucial factor is that the cable now doesn’t prolong additional than the 12-mile restrict. Since it’s not in worldwide waters, we consider it’s safer, says Pedersen.

When the troubleshooting might be completed, Pedersen can’t say presently.

The cable minimize in 2021 attracted consideration each in Norway and overseas. The Police’s safety service additionally obtained concerned. In June 2022, the conclusion got here from the police; the investigation exhibits that the cable was most probably torn away by a fishing vessel, which then minimize the cable.

Nonetheless, they may not reply whether or not this occurred negligently or on goal.