Military forces transport unique anti-aircraft systems to remote, unusual locations.
Wind energy, a promising alternative to fossil fuels, is becoming increasingly popular. However, the construction of wind farms can have a negative impact on local ecosystems, particularly affecting the routine of wildlife such as birds and bats. To mitigate this impact, solutions are being unveiled that employ artificial intelligence to save birds from traditional wind systems.
One such solution is the IdentiFlight method by Boulder Imaging. This innovative technology, which has formed an alliance with Oikon, the leading environmental consultancy in Croatia, is set to be installed in wind farms in southeastern Europe. The technology gathers information about the presence of birds around the facilities using five cameras over a period of twelve months. It employs artificial intelligence, deep learning, and computer vision for optimal use.
Similarly, the Norwegian company Spoor has implemented air defense systems for monitoring migratory birds in the Baltic Eagle offshore wind park in Germany.
The air defense systems detect birds in real-time and execute an automated reduction of IdentiFlight turbines, thereby reducing bird strikes in proportion. These systems protect highly concerned species such as the European griffon vulture, European bee-eater, European honey buzzard, golden eagle, and common kestrel.
The German start-up ProTecBird, using technology from Rheinmetall, has installed bird protection air defense systems in wind farms across several European countries, including a recent large contract for the biggest wind farm in Lithuania. Rheinmetall’s system is adapted into a civilian variant to avoid export restrictions.
These air defense systems help developers meet the required standards and reduce permit risk. Croatia, which is increasing its renewable energy under the European Green Deal, has strict permit requirements that demand detailed environmental impact analyses, especially for wind farms near Natura 2000 areas.
Energy production loss is minimal with these air defense systems, with a loss of only 1% in wind farms with these systems. IdentiFlight already has 520 systems implemented across the five continents, reducing bird losses by over 85%.
The data obtained from these systems will clarify any potential effect of the wind park on bird behavior and help Iberdrola, in charge of the project, fulfill its commitment to respect nature and care for biodiversity. The first air defense systems of this kind in Croatia are scheduled for 2026.
These advancements not only protect our feathered friends but also ensure the sustainable growth of renewable energy, making wind energy a safer and more environmentally friendly option for generating electricity.
