Axis Communications and Fleximaus GmbH enable wind farms that comply with species protection regulations
The expansion of renewable energies is progressing inexorably – and wind energy is one of the central building blocks. However, the operation of wind farms brings with it not only opportunities but also challenges. Birds are particularly at risk: when agricultural work such as mowing, ploughing or harvesting startles the animals, the risk of collisions with the rotors of the wind turbines increases significantly.
To reduce this risk, environmental regulations stipulate that wind turbines must be temporarily shut down in such situations. For operators, this not only means organisational effort, but also a balancing act between species protection and efficient energy production.
Automated shutdowns through AI
Fleximaus GmbH has developed a solution called FlexiBird that addresses precisely this issue. The AI-supported software recognises agricultural activities around wind turbines – for example, a tractor scaring away flocks of birds – and analyses the video data in real time. If a relevant event is identified, the system automatically notifies a predefined group of people. They can then react immediately and shut down the turbines if necessary.
This eliminates time-consuming inspection trips and countless phone calls. Shutdowns can be initiated and monitored with just a few clicks. In addition, the Greenbox, a specially developed communication system, ensures that wind turbines can also be shut down automatically – both during and after an agricultural activity. At the same time, weather and environmental data such as wind speed, precipitation and temperature are recorded. This information can be linked to the shutdowns and provides additional evidence for bird protection.
Video technology as the key
At the heart of the solution are network cameras from Axis Communications. FlexiBird uses AXIS P3827-LVE dome cameras, which have been specially developed for outdoor use. Thanks to their 360° panoramic view, they can seamlessly monitor the area around the wind turbines and provide reliable image material for years to come.
They are installed at heights of between 80 and 100 metres directly on the towers of the turbines. Two cameras are mounted on each tower to cover as large a field of view as possible. The robust construction and high resistance to weather conditions make the devices particularly suitable for continuous use in wind farms.
Documentation and evidence
In addition to its immediate bird protection function, FlexiBird offers further advantages:
- Flexible operating modes that can be individually adapted to the conditions of a wind farm.
- Automated documentation that serves as evidence for authorities.
- Easy operation that simplifies processes for operators, plant managers and manufacturers alike.
The solution was developed in collaboration with SL-Service und Verwaltungs GmbH and has been listed in the German Federal Nature Conservation Act since 2023. This means it can be officially used in all wind farms nationwide – an important step towards making the expansion of wind energy environmentally friendly.
Technology meets species protection
The combination of intelligent software and high-quality network technology impressively demonstrates how modern security technology can be used beyond its traditional areas of application. What has long been established in urban areas – cameras for surveillance and AI for analysis – does not protect people from crime here, but birds from life-threatening collisions.
This offers operators a double benefit: they comply with legal requirements and at the same time make an active contribution to species protection – without having to sacrifice efficiency in wind farm operation.
