How bat protection works Bats are creatures of habit which makes them easy to study. Scientific research has shown they are most active within two hours of sunset – and especially between temperatures of 19 and 21 degrees. Their activity decreases by up to 39 percent with every 1 metre/second increase in wind speed. It also varies according to season. This predictable behaviour means ICIWS can effectively reduce casualties by adjusting the cut-in speed of the blades according to estimated bat movement patterns. Systems synergised for regulated performance Within the turbine controller, the Sector Wind Direction System (SWDS) dictates how the blades operate in predefined conditions. The Wind Sector Management settings, which are governed by the SWDS, modulate the cut-in speed of the turbine. The SWDS takes its data from the nacelle’s wind measurement and direction measurement systems and interprets them for optimum performance. Better for bats – and for neighbours, too We engineered the ICIWS in response to our concerns about the impact of our wind farms on bat populations. And the experts agree we are getting it right. The Journal of Wildlife Management states that manipulating cut-in speeds can avoid six-out-often bat deaths. Pressure group Bat Conservation International agrees that raising the cut-in speed of a turbine to 5.5m/s can cut bat fatalities by at least 44 percent – and sometimes as much as 93 percent. ICIWS can effectively reduce casualties by adjusting the cut-in speed of the blades according to estimated bat movement patterns. As an additional benefit, ICIWS can also be used as a flexible tool to reduce noise emissions from the turbine during low wind conditions. This versatility allows wind farms to operate in a wider range of conditions, cutting lost production and increasing profit margins while finding greater acceptance among neighbouring communities. How ICIWS works with the Sector Wind Direction System (SWDS) Nacelle Direction Environment Temperature Wind Speed SWDS Controller Main Controller SWDS Parameter Settings Product Availability: ICIWS is available for the full range of Vestas turbines using the latest VMP 5000.2 or VMP Global operating system. Check with your local Vestas contact for more information.
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