Are wind turbines a threat to birds and bats?

Nature is facing increasing pressure from climate change, which is accelerating biodiversity loss and disrupting critical ecosystems. A key way to protect biodiversity is to cut emissions, mainly through a global shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy – including wind energy.

While energy infrastructure like wind turbines do impact birds and bats, the overall threat is minor compared to other dangers – like climate change, the overall threat is minor compared to the potential effects of climate change, the loss of critical habitat, collisions with cars and buildings, and feral pests.

At Vestas, we’re actively investing in research to develop safer technologies that minimize the effects our wind turbines may have on wildlife. Together with our suppliers, we continue to develop solutions to reduce the risk to the local bird and bat population in the areas where we install and operate projects.

Studies show that wind farms are responsible for between 0.3 fatalities per gigawatt-hour (GWh) of electricity, while fossil-fuelled power stations are responsible for about 5.2 fatalities per GWh. [1]

Another study found that two-thirds of North American bird species face a high risk of extinction due to climate change, which is driven by the use of fossil fuels. [2]

Comparative assessment of avian mortality for fossil fuels and wind power plants in the United states. [1]

Action on climate and biodiversity

The direct effect of wind projects on birds and bats is very low compared to the impact of climate change and human activity.

Fortunately, there are many steps we can take to limit the biodiversity impact of wind farms – from proper siting to targeted curtailment, acoustic deterrents, and more.

As the sustainable energy leader, we have a responsibility to minimize the impacts of wind turbines on birds and bats.

When Vestas develops a wind energy project, we always undertake studies in some places known as Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), or surveys to review potential impacts to biodiversity and in particular birds and bats. This information is used to inform the siting of project facilities and implementation of operational measures to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Together with our partners and suppliers, we’re researching how we can improve our systems and products through AI and new technologies. Advances in turbine placement and design are helping to improve coexistence with wildlife. Real-time monitoring systems and improved detection and deterrent technologies are being used to minimize risks.

We’re investing in research to develop even more effective technologies and partnering with key stakeholders to minimize the impact of our activities on the environment and wildlife. With this ambition, we recently formed a consortium with Aarhus University, Monash University, Western Sydney University, and the Norwegian Institute of Nature Research to advance research on the areas of bird and bat collision risk modeling and mitigation measures.  Additionally, Steelhead works with REWI to accelerate the responsible deployment of renewable energy to mitigate climate change and protect wildlife and ecosystems.

Systems like radar, cameras, thermal sensors, or microphones detect birds and bats and in many cases can identify species.

The system triggers a response to allow action to minimize risk.

Depending on the system and species involved, turbines may stop or produce sounds to deter wildlife from the rotor swept area.