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Bird protection at wind turbines: camera-based detection systems in practical use

Published in: Talking Point, Exclusive Articles

Bird protection at wind turbines: camera-based detection systems in practical use image

The conflict between wind energy development and species protection poses increasing challenges for planners and operators across Europe. In particular, the protection of endangered birds of prey such as the red kite or sea eagle has led authorities to impose blanket shutdown requirements or delay permits. As a technological response, AI-assisted camera systems are increasingly being deployed, offering targeted, demand-based control of turbine operations.

One of the approaches is the BirdVision® AI-automated anti-collision system. The concept involves multiple industrial cameras, with wide angle lenses, installed at the base of the turbine tower to monitor the airspace surrounding the installation. These units are housed in weatherproof, self-cleaning enclosures and engineered to maintain reliable performance under challenging conditions, including dust, UV radiation, and precipitation.

The captured image data is processed by a server unit inside the tower. Using object recognition and tracking algorithms, the bird flights are analysed and, if necessary, a stop signal is issued to the turbine control system.

The technical specification includes 360° surveillance. As it is working with optical cameras, the system operates from sunrise to sunset. During the night or in heavy rain and snow, no birds can be detected. Fortunately, protected bird species are not flying around in such weather conditions.

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