Detection System Prevents Bird Casualties

Wind turbines account for only a small portion of bird mortality. The number of bird casualties due to traffic or, for example, cats on the prowl is much higher. Nevertheless, prevention is always better. For rare species such as the white-tailed eagle, this is also a requirement under the Nature Conservation Act. Senne: “There are only about 70 white-tailed eagles that permanently reside in the Netherlands. We must take care of them. Fortunately, with a bird detection system, you can significantly reduce the chance of bird casualties around a wind farm.”

Camera Detects Birds and Flight Patterns

Wind farm Krammer – a community wind initiative in which GreenTrust is closely involved – was the first wind farm in the Netherlands to use a detection system to prevent bird casualties. “GreenTrust has now equipped two wind farms with a bird detection system: Kroningswind and Oostflakkee,” says Senne. “The system consists of cameras that observe the size of birds and their flight patterns. Using AI, you can deduce from this data whether there is a chance that a bird will fly through the rotor blades. In such a case, the turbine is stopped until the bird has passed.”

Searching for the Right Balance

Installing and calibrating the system requires the necessary knowledge and care. ‘We work with the developer of the chosen detection system,’ Senne indicates. ‘But also with involved nature organizations or an ecologist. You have to take into account, among other things, the species of birds and the environment. Because it makes a big difference whether the wind turbines are located near an industrial area or near a breeding site or resting area for birds on their annual migration. When calibrating, the art is to find a good balance, where the turbine stops when necessary, but doesn’t stand still too often. At Kroningswind, for example, the rotor blades also stopped for approaching aircraft taking off or landing at nearby Rotterdam Airport. Eventually, you arrive at a setting that does as much justice as possible to all interests. Zero bird casualties is not possible, but a reduction of 95% is achievable.’

Creating Support

A bird detection system is not only a good way to comply with the requirements of the Nature Conservation Act. It also helps create support for a project. Senne: ‘The fact that you’re doing everything possible to prevent bird casualties naturally creates more goodwill. When developing a new wind farm, this shows that you have the best intentions. Is the development phase already over? You can still easily incorporate a detection system during construction. Even if your wind farm is already realized, it adds value.’ And what about management and maintenance? ‘Especially with the newest systems, it’s not too bad,’ Senne indicates. ‘Usually, it’s a matter of cleaning the cameras and occasionally replacing a camera or analysis unit. Easy to include during the annual inspection of the wind turbine.’

Curious about the possibilities of a bird detection system? At GreenTrust, you can get advice tailored to your project. Additionally, we are happy to handle the procurement and ensure installation and management. Feel free to contact Senne.