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Windmill
Providing specialist knowledge, consultancy and technology to deliver solutions to wind farm interference problems.
With many countries now seeking to harness wind power to address future energy requirements, the location of wind farms and their potential impact on existing radar systems, such as air traffic control and national security systems, has become increasingly important. BAE Systems has developed a number of solutions to address location issues for existing and planned wind farms enabling the continued development and deployment of wind energy operations.
Phase 1: Identify potential interference issues
Using our extensive knowledge base of radar and air traffic control (ATC) operations and tailored modelling solutions we are able to assess potential interference issues prior to installation.
- Preparatory study to assess if the proposed wind farm, given its location and topography will be within the line of sight of radars in the vicinity.
- Assessment of the performance characteristics of local radar installations, including military and ATC radar.
- Use of modelling software to determine the potential levels of interaction between radar systems and wind turbines.
- Delivery of a report for the proposed site which highlights potential areas of interference.
Phase 2: Risk Reduction
Once potential areas of conflict are identified, we are then able to assess potential solutions to mitigate the impact of the proposed wind farm on radar operations.
- Assessment and understanding of any statutory objections
- Consideration of potential mitigation options
- Modelling of mitigation options to assess likely effects on radar performance
- Discussion of potential mitigation solutions with key stakeholders
- Delivery of a report for the proposed site recommending approach to mitigation
Phase 3: Deliver Mitigation Solutions
Drawing on our skills and experience of delivering solutions to the defence industry, we apply the same capabilities to implement solutions to mitigate the interference issues between wind farm and radar. The nature of these mitigation solutions may range from radar modifications through to means to reduce turbine radar signature.
- Discussion and agreement with key stakeholders of the characteristics of the proposed mitigation solution.
- Detailed specification of the mitigation solution.
- Implementation of the mitigation solution.
Our reputation and credibility in providing key domain knowledge on the interference problem and in delivery of mitigation solutions has been developed over many decades of research, development and delivery in the defence industry.
Radar Modelling
We are proud to have been at the forefront of the design and development of some of the worlds most advanced radar systems for both military and commercial applications.
Our suite of bespoke and off-the-shelf modelling software enables us to simulate and analyse radar systems behaviour, including signal processing, plot extraction and tracking algorithms as well as the radar environment.
This unique experience provides the ability to help our clients identify, understand and assess the key interference issues for both military and ATC radar systems.
Stealth Materials
With over 60 years experience in the design, development and volume manufacture of Radar Absorbent Materials (RAM), our stealth solutions see service across military platforms in air, land and sea in addition to numerous commercial applications.
BAE Systems continues to be at the forefront of applying military technology to address the radar interference issue and we continue to work with the UK MoD, UK DTI, wind farm developers and turbine manufacturers to deliver the next generation of stealthy wind turbine.
