TNO Wind Energy
The Wind Energy group of TNO has been developing bird collision monitoring systems since 2002. TNO (Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research) is an independent research organisation, founded by law in 1932, that bridges the gap between fundamental science and practical application. It supports governments, industry, and society by developing innovative solutions in areas such as energy transition.
In this case, by delivering WT-Bird® systems, it will reduce uncertainties in collision rates and show under which circumstances these happen.
Within Ecowende TNO will deliver 12 WT-Bird® systems to monitor bird collisions. WT-Bird® is the only validated system which directly measures bird collision. The solution integrates high sensitivity fibre optic vibration sensors, advanced impact classification algorithms, and AI supported image processing, creating a robust multi sensor platform for real time collision detection. The upgraded vibration sensors demonstrated high detection rates even for light objects (8–40 g) representing small birds and bats with extremely low false-positive rates in previous projects.
With the ability to detect small species and night time events — often missed by camera systems alone — the system provides insight into actual collision rates, validation data for ecological innovations, and improved understanding of how birds and bats interact with turbines offshore. This valuable real time data supports ecological impact assessments and adaptive mitigation strategies.
© Text in cooperation with TNO.
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