Here at Ternan Energy, we are expanding our Irish operations significantly. The appointment of Vincent Twomey as Principal Geological Engineer marks an important step in our growth plans to support the delivery of the energy transition in the Irish market, particularly in renewable energy and associated infrastructure development.
We sat down with Vincent to discuss the experience he will be bringing to strengthen the Ternan team.
Thanks for your time Vincent. Tell us a bit more about your background.
I have over a decade of experience working across various aspects of geology, geological engineering and geotechnical site investigation across Ireland and further afield. I graduated from University College Cork with an undergraduate degree in geology and completed a Master’s in structural geology in Vancouver, Canada. I completed my PhD in Structural Geology at the University of St Andrews, Scotland, where I focused on the interplay between deformation and magma movement using subaerially exposed seafloor in southeast Iceland as a proxy.
My career has included positions with the Geological Survey of Ireland, working as a mapping geologist, and as a site engineer for Priority Geotechnical Ltd, managing various terrestrial and offshore projects across Ireland. I have also contracted as an earthworks examiner for Amey where I conducted geotechnical examinations of rock cuttings and soil cuttings/embankments adjacent to Network Rail lines across Scotland. I have also worked as a project engineer for Arup, and an Environmental Consultant for RSK working on desk- and field-based studies for renewable energy projects and projects of similar scope. Following this, I joined SCHOTTEL Marine technologies where I provided geotechnical assessment to scope and size rock anchors primarily for the floating offshore wind sector.
What will you be working on at Ternan?
As Principal Geological Engineer, I will support the technical development of characteristic geological/ground models with the intention of providing site risk mitigation, proving indicative risk zones, and where applicable, recommendations for future survey and site investigation strategies.
I aim to contribute to our team’s multi-disciplinary experience in geophysics, geotechnics and foundation engineering, enhancing our integrated ground modelling services, particularly by adding my extensive knowledge of the regional geology, stratigraphy and tectonic strain parameters across Ireland, as well as my experience in geotechnical site investigations. This will include; desktop study/gap analysis, reviewing existing data available site(s) data(e.g., historic survey data, public domain data, 3rd party data and existing in-house data) to plot for the spatial analysis of data, survey planning and charting; identify gaps (uncertainty/risk) and; highlight potential hazards to future site operations.
Tell us more about the additional services you will be offering for Ternan.
I’ve joined Ternan at a crucial time for Ireland’s energy sector. In order to aid the decarbonisation of Ireland’s electricity grid, the Irish Government has set an ambitious target of having an 80% share of electricity generation supplied by renewable sources by 2030, 5 GW of which to be provided by offshore wind with a stated further ambition to deliver 20 GW by 2040, and 37 GW by 2050. Based on this, I will spearhead Ternan’s expansion in the Irish market, looking at our traditional markets and growing presence with pre-existing clients across a range of projects, then looking to expand our client base and the projects we cover.
This expansion will be supported by plans to grow the Irish team, ensuring Ternan can continue to meet the increasing demands of the evolving energy sector on the island. I aim to develop new product lines where appropriate and support current business development and commercial activities, helping to identify and follow up on potential opportunities to expand Ternan’s range of services and sectors we support in Ireland.
What are the benefits to our clients?
I will be working closely with Ternan’s existing teams to deliver comprehensive solutions using the best team and package of services. This integrated approach will combine local geological expertise with Ternan’s proven track record in international markets, offering clients access to a broader range of experience and capabilities. By prioritising the skill sets within the Ternan team, I can bring them into the project at the critical point to ensure the best outcomes for our clients. Added to this, current and future clients can draw on the successes from further afield to grow independently in the Irish market.
How are you looking forward to making an impact with Ternan?
The great thing about the Irish market is that there is a lot of untapped potential, and Ternan has an open mind with a wide range of project ideas to complement our offshore offering.
I’m excited to get involved with the energy transition in Ireland, helping to achieve the country’s decarbonisation goals and Ternan has the skill set to help these projects move forward.
I’m a hands-on geologist who likes to get out on site when I can and meet clients. I want to see the sites, get involved in ground-truthing and work within a multi-disciplinary process. I strongly believe in using knowledge from projects that can be commercially applicable to the green energy transition. There is enormous potential from a personal point of view, Ternan has given me a licence to explore these projects using my background in geological mapping and site investigations. I can grow my own experience on a diverse range of projects while applying my background in projects that have huge commercial potential in the renewable energy sector.
“The Irish market is currently under-tapped and has tremendous potential. Ternan Energy brings an open-minded approach and a wide range of project capabilities that can contribute significantly to Ireland’s energy transition goals. I’m excited to use my background in geological mapping and site investigations to help grow these opportunities.” Vincent Twomey, PhD.
If you would like to know more about our services in Ireland please email vincent.twomey@ternan-energy.com we’d love to discuss your projects. To find out more about our services please visit www.ternan-energy.com