Liepāja wind farm faces scrutiny after protected bats found dead

Eighteen specially protected bats were found dead at the Rapsoil wind farm in Liepāja over a two-week period, more than double the permitted limit. The wind farm is located near the Tosmare Nature Park, an area used by bats for feeding and wintering.

The Nature Conservation Agency (DAP) ordered the company to halt wind turbine operations and develop a mitigation plan. Despite a 1,000 euro fine issued for failing to comply with the shutdown order and failing to submit required monitoring data, reports indicate that the turbines continued to operate as of late September.

Experts note that the turbines are positioned perpendicularly to a major bat migration corridor in Latvia. The company has not admitted to the violations and is considering appealing the decision.