Researchers used lidar technology to study wind conditions in the North Sea at high altitudes up to 315 meters. They found that wind shear is highest with south-westerly winds and high speeds, and wind direction changes with height. Wind speed distributions varied by location, year, and proximity to the coast. Wind speeds generally increase with height, but the range of possible speeds widens at higher altitudes. Comparisons with KNW atlas data showed good agreement at certain measurement locations.