Summary
Join us as we chat with Fran from Wildlife Acoustics as she talks about protecting bats with Acoustically Triggered Curtailment.
Description
Wind turbines are a vital part of the renewable energy transition, but can cause bat mortality. Acoustically Triggered Curtailment (ATC) is an emerging mitigation strategy where turbine blades are feathered to slow or talk rotation when bats are present. We’ll look at evidence from the UK and elsewhere that suggests ATC has the potential to reduce bat mortality while increasing energy production at wind farms compared with current curtailment protocols. We’ll discuss some of the practical issues around using the technique and what to know if you are considering using it.
Following a university research career studying British wildlife, Fran has spent over 20 years in technical sales and business development relating to both renewable energy and ecology. She currently splits her time between Wildlife Acoustics and Automated Bioacoustics, mainly focussing on bats at wind turbines. Fran also provides advice and training on wildlife sound recorders and analysis to companies across Europe and Africa. As well as being a Trustee for Westmill Sustainable Energy Trust, promoting educational visits to Westmill wind and solar farm, she is a keen naturalist and enjoys trying to identify birds by ear.
