Vattenfall tests thermal cameras to monitor bird collisions at offshore wind farm

Vattenfall has completed a year-long test of thermal camera technology at the Hollandse Kust Zuid offshore wind farm to monitor bird collision risks. The trial utilized sixteen Wildlife Imaging Systems (WIS) thermal cameras installed on a single wind turbine, operating 24 hours a day.

By combining thermal imaging with artificial intelligence, the system successfully detected and analyzed bird movements in various conditions, including day, night, fog, and rain. The technology proved capable of identifying small songbirds during migration, bats during dark hours, and larger bird species during the day.

Data collected during the two migration seasons were analyzed by researchers from Wageningen University & Research. The study identified 22 potential bird collisions, providing unique practical data that allows for the quantification of collision risks at offshore wind farms. The results offer insights into how such technology can be optimized for broader future applications in the renewable energy sector.