Red Rocket Energy has installed an automated avian detection and deterrent system at its Brandvalley and Rietkloof wind farms, marking what the independent power producer (IPP) said is a first for South Africa’s wind energy sector.
The 144 MW facilities, which commenced commercial operation in April, are the first projects under Round 5 of the Renewable Energy IPP Procurement Programme to reach this milestone, the company said. The system is also being rolled out at Red Rocket’s other wind farms currently under construction.
“Targeting turbines located in bird-sensitive areas, the system uses detection technology to track bird movements near the turbines. On detecting birds in close proximity, it activates visual and audio deterrents and, if necessary, initiates a temporary turbine shutdown. This represents a huge leap forward over the current traditional, manually operated methods,” Red Rocket said.
Data collected through the system is integrated into Red Rocket’s supervisory control and data acquisition platform, providing real-time insights into bird behaviour and turbine response.
“With this partnership, Red Rocket affirms its long-term vision that guides our decisions as we strive to operate sustainably for the benefit of our environment. We are delighted to work with Bioseco on this project, which marks a pivotal phase in our journey after the recent milestones of the two projects,” said Matteo Brambilla, CEO of Red Rocket Energy.
