Wind farms in Peel region reduce nighttime disturbance with smart lighting system
The joint wind farms Ospeldijk, Heibloem, Kookepan and Egchelse Heide have signed an agreement with Dark Sky, manufacturer and installer of smart radar detection systems. With this ADLS (Aircraft Detection Lighting System), the red obstacle lights on wind turbines will henceforth be switched on only when there is actual air traffic in the vicinity.
On Thursday, May 21, representatives of the wind farms involved and Dark Sky signed the agreement. A total of 14 wind turbines will be equipped with the new system. The wind farms are located close to each other. The cooperatives are working jointly with the ADLS to reduce the impact of wind energy on the living environment.
Less light nuisance for the surrounding area
Currently, the red obstacle lights on wind turbines burn continuously at night, as required for aviation safety. This can be perceived as a nuisance by local residents.
The ADLS system uses special detection technology to monitor the airspace around the wind farms. Only when an aircraft or helicopter is detected, the lights automatically turn on temporarily. As soon as the aircraft leaves the area, the lights turn off again. Based on previous tests, the parties involved expect the lights to remain off at least 85% of the time.
Successful test phase
Part of the test phase included a practical trial on a turbine at Egchelse Heide and a turbine at Ospeldijk. After a successful test period and positive results, the Environmental and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) gave approval for application of the system. It was then decided to enter into a permanent cooperation with Dark Sky.
Joint approach wind farm owners
The cooperatives have deliberately chosen a joint approach. By acting together, the effect for the environment is maximized.
“It is unique that so many wind farms are joining hands. The fact that the local cooperatives, including Zuidenwind, finance this project entirely by themselves shows how deeply rooted we are in the region. This is a huge gain for the sleep of local residents and the landscape in the Peel region.” says Léon Porankiewicz of Coöperatie Zuidenwind.
Planning implementation
The installation of the ADLS systems will begin in the near future. The goal is to have all systems fully operational before the end of this year. After implementation, the red lights will be activated in the evening and night only when necessary from an aviation safety perspective.
Attendees at signing
Representatives of the wind farms and Dark Sky were present at the signing, including: Wim Wienen (WML), Eric Hulshof (De Kookepan), Adrie van Oerle (Egchelse heide), Mr. Jurchen (Dark Sky), Ms. Chlodny (Dark Sky), Tijs Boorsma (Greentrust), Richard Verhoeff (Greentrust), Henk Coolen (Zuidenwind), Marcel van Essen (Zuidenwind) and Leon Porankiewicz (Zuidenwind).
