Wind turbine interference with radar is an issue that we tackle on a daily basis. But it is not only in the UK that this is a problem, it occurs internationally.
Recently an article has been published in the Ottawa Citizen detailing concerns that wind farm radar interference is creating enough clutter to cause “blackout zones” for Air Traffic Control (ATC) Radar. This can make it difficult for controllers to distinguish an aircraft when they pass in the vicinity of a wind site.
The article also mentions the negative effects that the turbines can have on meteorological (weather) radar. They can reduce the detection performance by physically obstructing the signal amongst other things.
Assessing Wind Turbine Impact on Radar
If you are in the process of developing a wind project, it is vital that you consider ways of managing the wind energy radar issue. Our advice is to assess a site early on to know what you are likely to face when going forward.
Some wind farm radar interference issues can delay, and even stop a site. Therefore, getting advice on the potential site issues in the scoping stages could save you a lot of time, money and effort. We give our initial advice in the form of an online report commentary.
Pager Power Online
For the last 2 years we have set up, as well as continued to improve, our web wind turbine radar, aviation and comms reports. Designed to enable you to get initial cost effective answers to planning questions, Pager Power Online host reports such as a Radar Line of Sight Assessment, and Obstruction Assessment. (Both can be run for sites globally, including Canada).
If you would like to know more about the range of online wind turbine studies, you can visit the dedicated page on our website or contact us to ask a specific question.
Call +44 (0) 1787 319001 or email info@pagerpower.com.
