Two applications for single turbine sites proposed in Falmouth are likely to be refused due to Ministry of Defence (MOD) concerns that they will have detrimental affects to nearby radar operations.
It isn’t a new thing to read a story about turbines being refused or delayed due to potential radar interference – we have been helping many industry professionals around the world with this area for over a decade! However each story emphasises just how important it is to check for radar issues early on in the development process.
The Falmouth Sites
Planning applications have been submitted by Clarity Renewables for two 77m turbines located on separate sites. Reported on thisisthewestcountry.co.uk, there has only been one official objection received for the first application a project at Higher Kergilliack Farm. The MOD raised concerns about interference to the delivery of radar services to aircraft operating under the control of Plymouth military. It was also mentioned that Culdrose Precision Approach Radar (PAR) would be affected by the turbine.
Word from the defence body has yet to be received at the nearby second site at Tregonhaye Farm.
Due to the MOD response, the committee of Falmouth councillors have advised that Cornwall Council refuse both of the applications.
Identify Wind Turbine Radar and Aviation Issues Early On
So if you are undertaking a wind turbine project and want to quickly check for issues sooner rather than later, we would recommend using Pager Power Online. This is the area of our website that houses our rapid, comprehensive yet cost effective reports which are ideal for running initial checks on a development.
If you don’t know the radar installations or airfields that surround your site…
We would recommend the Aviation Risk Report with Expert Commentary. Within this report the nearby installations that could pose an issue will be listed. For up to the three most significant, Radar Line of Sight Calculations will be run.
The second great feature of this report is that it shows you the nearby airfields that you may need to consult with.
Lastly, the expert commentary will provide you with recommended next steps about how your site can keep moving forward along with an overall combined aviation risk score.
If you are concerned about a particular radar installation…
We recommend a Radar Line of Sight Assessment with Expert Commentary. This does not take into account features on the terrain, such as buildings or trees, but will inform you whether a turbine is likely to be visible to a radar. It, of course, accounts for earth curvature, refraction and multiple turbines.
Within the commentary, we will use our expert opinion to recommend next steps forward,
This assessment can be used for wind power projects worldwide. So whether you want to assess a large wind farm project in Kenya or a single turbine development in Australia, just enter the information and buy online to have the report emailed to you.
Any Questions?
We’re happy to help you. So if you have any questions about Pager Power Online, or our other services just get in touch by calling +44 (0) 1787 319001 or email info@pagerpower.com.