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Schema Kamera- und Radarsysteme an WEA zur Erfassung von Vögeln
Schema Kamera- und Radarsysteme an WEA zur Erfassung von Vögeln BfN/Ponitka

New publication on radar and camera systems to prevent bird collisions at wind turbines

Camera or radar systems for autonomous detection of wind-sensitive bird species (such as certain birds of prey) and automatic shutdown of wind turbines before the detected individuals come dangerously close to the rotors can potentially ensure bird protection and the expansion of wind energy.

The use of such technical systems can therefore be promising from a species conservation perspective. But how can such technical systems be used on wind turbines in practice so that bird collisions are reliably avoided? What steps are still necessary that technical systems can be installed as quickly as possible? Tackling these questions, the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN), the Competence Centre for Nature Conservation and Energy Transition (KNE) and the Agency for Onshore Wind Energy (FA Wind) jointly published the BfN script "Technical systems for the mitigation of bird collisions at wind turbines - state of development and issues" in July 2020.

The publication compiles questions and requirements for the introduction of the systems in practice and highlights the current state of development of camera and radar systems, which can prospectively ensure the protection of wind-sensitive bird species at specific wind power sites. The BfN script was produced, among other things, in the context of research and development projects of the BfN thematic priority "Nature Conservation and Renewable Energies", including the workshop series KNE Detection Systems and NatForWINSENT II "Implementation of nature conservation research at onshore wind test sites".

 

Ammermann, K., Bruns, E., Ponitka, J., Schuster, E., Sudhaus, D. & Tucci, F. (2020): Technische Systeme zur Minderung von Vogelkollisionen an Windenergieanlagen. – Entwicklungsstand und Fragestellungen – BfN-Skripten 571.

Joint press release of the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation BfN with the Competence Centre for Nature Conservation and Energy Transition KNE gGmbH and the Agency for the Promotion of a Nature- and Environmentally Compatible Expansion of onshore Wind Energy e.V. of 22.07.2020.

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How can the expansion in renewable energies be designed in harmony with nature? The Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN) is providing expert scientific advice on this question to the Federal Ministry of the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (Bundesumweltministerium, BMUB). Research by the BfN always has a practical application and generates scientific results for advising government i.e. supplies a basis for decision-making for the preparation, implementation, monitoring and further development of nature conservation measures and the Federal Government's nature conservation policy.