UK: Massive Wind Turbines Could ‘Confuse’ Air Traffic Radar

Developers of an offshore wind farm project in Moray Firth have examined the environmental impact and found that the turbines may be impossible to differentiate from aircraft on radar screens at the air traffic control centres, according to the Scotsman. The project could also affect evacuation and transfer flights to oil and gas platforms near the development, the study shows.

The offshore wind farm project is worth GBP 3 billion, with planned construction of up to 277 massive turbines, nine miles off the coast of Caithness.

The consortium of SSE Renewables and Repsol Nuevas Energias UK (Bowl) admitted in its environmental statement that the wind farm could potentially affect radar systems at RAF Lossiemouth and Allans Hill, near Fraserburgh, an air traffic control site used by Aberdeen.

Solutions that are considered include a new radar system and upgraded holographic radar.

The consultants who prepared the statement said: “A potential effect was identified for helicopter operations to offshore oil and gas platforms in the Moray Firth.

“This is due to the effects on both visual and instrument approaches to the platforms, decreasing the ability of helicopters to reach the platforms for both evacuation and personnel transfer purposes.”

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said that wind turbines could affect military operations and it was essential that its weapons, firing ranges and navigation were protected, adding that the MoD was in discussions with the developer of the wind farm.

A National Air Traffic System (Nats) spokeswoman said: “The movement and the altitude of the [turbine] blades can cause clutter on the radar screen, which can interfere with the controllers’ ability to identify the aircraft passing through the area.” She pointed out that it was too early to tell whether her organisation would lodge an objection.

“We have been in regular consultation with the MoD, the Civil Aviation Authority, National Air Traffic Systems and offshore platform stakeholders from the outset,” Bowl (Beatrice Offshore Windfarm Ltd) spokesman stated. “We will continue to consult all relevant agencies throughout the consenting process.”  

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Offshore WIND staff, May 2, 2012; Image: xavius