Published , Modified Abstract on Wind Turbines Operating Without Curtailment Claim Many Victims Among Protected Bat Species in Germany Original source
Wind Turbines Operating Without Curtailment Claim Many Victims Among Protected Bat Species in Germany
Wind turbines have been hailed as a clean and renewable source of energy, but their impact on wildlife, particularly bats, has been a cause for concern. In Germany, wind turbines operating without curtailment have been found to be responsible for the deaths of many protected bat species. This article explores the issue in detail and highlights the need for more effective measures to protect these vulnerable creatures.
Introduction
The use of wind turbines to generate electricity has increased significantly in recent years, as countries strive to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. However, the rapid expansion of wind farms has led to an increase in the number of bat fatalities. In Germany, where there are over 30,000 wind turbines, the problem is particularly acute.
The Impact of Wind Turbines on Bats
Bats are particularly vulnerable to wind turbines because they fly at night and are attracted to the turbines' spinning blades. When bats come into contact with the blades, they can suffer fatal injuries. The problem is compounded by the fact that many bat species are protected under European Union law.
The German Study
A recent study conducted by researchers at the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in Berlin found that wind turbines operating without curtailment were responsible for a significant number of bat fatalities in Germany. The study analyzed data from 98 wind turbines across Germany and found that over 1,200 bats were killed over a period of six months.
The researchers also found that certain species of bats were more vulnerable than others. For example, Nathusius' pipistrelle, a migratory bat species, was found to be particularly at risk.
Curtailment as a Solution
Curtailment is a technique used to reduce the impact of wind turbines on bats. It involves shutting down or reducing the speed of the turbines during periods when bats are most active. However, curtailment is not widely used in Germany because it can reduce the efficiency of wind farms and increase costs.
The Need for More Effective Measures
The study's findings highlight the need for more effective measures to protect bats from wind turbines. One possible solution is to use ultrasonic acoustic deterrents, which emit high-frequency sounds that deter bats from approaching the turbines. Another solution is to locate wind turbines away from areas where bats are known to roost or migrate.
Conclusion
Wind turbines operating without curtailment are responsible for a significant number of bat fatalities in Germany. The problem is particularly acute for protected bat species, which are vulnerable to injury and death from turbine blades. More effective measures are needed to protect these creatures, including the use of ultrasonic acoustic deterrents and careful siting of wind turbines.
FAQs
1. What is curtailment?
Curtailment is a technique used to reduce the impact of wind turbines on bats. It involves shutting down or reducing the speed of the turbines during periods when bats are most active.
2. Why are bats attracted to wind turbines?
Bats are attracted to wind turbines because they fly at night and are drawn to the spinning blades.
3. What is an ultrasonic acoustic deterrent?
An ultrasonic acoustic deterrent emits high-frequency sounds that deter bats from approaching wind turbines.
4. How many wind turbines are there in Germany?
There are over 30,000 wind turbines in Germany.
5. Why are bat fatalities a concern?
Many bat species are protected under European Union law, and their populations have declined significantly in recent years due to habitat loss and other factors. Wind turbine fatalities can have a significant impact on already vulnerable populations.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.