The new report provides an assessment of the efficacy of various mitigation options to avoid, minimize, or compensate for wind energy effects on bats, along with monitoring considerations and an adaptive framework aimed at improving bat conservation efforts across Canada.

DNV GL and the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) have released a new study on bat activity and wind power.

The 254-page report is the result of a comprehensive, three-year scientific review examining the numerous types of solutions and preventatives — such as acoustic deterrents and texturized coatings, and compensation, and offsets to safeguard the bats.

The report, “Wind Energy and Bat Conservation – A Review by the Canadian Wind Energy Association,” provides the wind industry, policy makers, and other stakeholders with a scientific and ecological approach to supporting renewable energy production in Canada while minimizing the impacts to bats from wind energy.

• Siting and Development Considerations.
• Post-Construction Monitoring and Estimating Impacts to Bats.
• Operational Avoidance and Minimization.
• Compensation and Offsets
• Adaptive Management Framework

As a publication for those in the renewables industry, the report will aid communication and collaboration among the various individuals, organizations and agencies interested in wind energy and bat conservation in Canada by providing a single, credible source of scientific information to help guide decisions and inform long-term strategies.