Swedish energy firm Vattenfall has launched a scientific research program to study the environmental impacts of offshore wind.
The €3m program, based at the company's European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre (EOWDC) off the Aberdeen coast, will allocate the fund among scientists that apply to study the environment around the 11-turbine plant.
Expressions of interest in the research programme should be submitted by September 2.
The panel members include representatives from Vattenfall, Aberdeen Renewable Energy Group, Marine Scotland Science, Scottish Natural Heritage, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, RSPB Scotland, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, and The Crown Estate.
Vattenfall EOWDC project director Adam Ezzamel said: “In-depth scientific research and monitoring in a real-time environment is recognised as vital to maximising the learning opportunities for the offshore wind sector.
"We’re pleased that the research will take place at the EOWDC as it underlines the importance of the scheme as a global hub of innovation.
“We are working collaboratively with a number of key environmental agencies to allocate the research budget, and look forward to working closely with the successful parties to facilitate exceptional science.”
EOWDC has been opposed by US Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, because it would be constructed within sight of his golf course at the Menie Estate.