As efforts toward sustainability intensify worldwide, renewable energy projects have become a crucial focus, with solar farms and onshore and offshore wind installations leading the charge. However, ensuring that these projects are developed sustainably requires that the methods used in surveying and site preparation align with the same environmental goals. Non-invasive, eco-friendly approaches are essential to minimize impact on ecosystems while meeting the industry’s rigorous data and planning requirements.
Since 2016, AB Surveying and Development (ABSD) has been instrumental in supporting onshore renewable energy projects by deploying Aerial LiDAR technology. This advanced surveying tool captures high-precision topographic data from the air, allowing developers to plan site layouts, design infrastructure, and optimize project execution—all while minimizing disturbance to the environment.
“Imagine 1 million data points collected every second—that’s the power of Aerial LiDAR,” says Engr. Antonio “Tony” Botor, ABSD’s founder and General Manager. “It’s faster, more accurate, and more reliable than traditional survey methods.”
With the recent surge in offshore renewable energy projects, particularly offshore wind farms, Engr. Botor recognized the growing need for a sustainable, non-invasive solution for seabed mapping. Traditional boat-based surveys are often slow, costly, and prone to weather-related delays, posing challenges for developers aiming to adhere to sustainable practices while maintaining efficiency.
Engr. Botor sought a way to apply ABSD’s commitment to precision and environmental stewardship to offshore projects as well, ensuring that ABSD could continue providing accurate, high-quality data without compromising sustainability.
To address these offshore challenges, ABSD, in partnership with RIEGL and GPS Lands Malaysia, has introduced Aerial Bathymetric LiDAR (ABL)—the first technology of its kind in Southeast Asia. This innovative solution uses a specialized green laser capable of penetrating water to map underwater terrains like the seabed. From an aircraft flying at 130 km/h (70 knots), ABSD can survey large marine areas with unprecedented speed and accuracy, in stark contrast to traditional boat surveys, which typically operate at around 13 km/h (7 knots).
“Aerial Bathymetric LiDAR enables us to collect precise seabed data rapidly and without disturbing marine environments.”, says Engr. Botor.
Photo by RIEGL
Both Aerial LiDAR for onshore projects and Aerial Bathymetric LiDAR for offshore sites align with the renewable energy sector’s dedication to sustainability. By using aerial methods, ABSD’s technology significantly reduces the need for ground-based or boat-based equipment, minimizing disruption to sensitive ecosystems and communities.
“Our mission is to help developers build smarter and faster while reducing their environmental impact,” adds Engr. Botor. “LiDAR technology achieves that balance between precision and sustainability.”
As the first company in Southeast Asia to offer Aerial Bathymetric LiDAR, AB Surveying and Development is setting a new standard for offshore and onshore renewable energy projects. By providing fast, accurate, and non-invasive survey solutions, ABSD enables developers to accelerate project timelines, reduce costs, and uphold their commitment to environmental responsibility.
For renewable energy developers aiming to fast-track projects with minimal ecological impact, AB Surveying and Development offers the expertise and advanced technology needed to achieve these goals sustainably and efficiently.
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