Although ADLS (Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems) is currently mandated by law in only a few countries, numerous national regulations already exist for implementing demand-based obstacle marking. These regulations are often derived from the guidelines of the FAA and ICAO but are adapted to account for specific national requirements and circumstances.
Germany has been the pioneer in the field of Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems. With some companies operating as early as 2008, the first mandatory regulations were adopted in the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG in German) in 2019. This law states the obligation for all wind turbines that measure over 100 meters in height and have been put into operation after 2005 to be equipped with a transponder-based ADLS. Since then, the deadline has been postponed four times and eventually has come into effect as of January 1, 2025.
Due to this regulation, nearly all existing wind turbines in Germany have been equipped with an ADL system and most are already dark at nighttime. If that’s not the case, operators can face harsh penalties. According to § 52 EEG, the penalty amounts to 10 euros per kilowatt of installed capacity of the system and calendar month. For a 3.5 megawatt turbine, this equates to 35,000 euros per month.
Of course, the requirement for ADLS also applies to new wind turbines. Project planners and operators must therefore have the topic of ADLS on the agenda even before the construction of a new wind farm. ADLS providers and turbine manufacturers have optimized their processes for this in recent years. Some manufacturers can deliver the ADLS components directly from the factory so that ADLS is also available when the wind farm is commissioned.
Light:Guard already monitors almost the entire German airspace and covers one seventh of the area of Germany. In these areas, new ADLS systems can be put into operation almost immediately.
If you are a project planner with upcoming wind farm projects in Germany, do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to support you with our experience from over 700 wind farms equipped with the light:guard system.
On January 1, 2024, the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority introduced the “Regulation on reporting, registration and marking of aviation obstacles“. These regulations establish clear guidelines for systems designed to manage the activation of warning lights on wind turbine structures, ensuring they are only illuminated when necessary. The goal is to minimize light pollution while maintaining the highest standards of safety for aviation.
One of the standout features of the new regulation is the requirement for a dual detection system that combines Primary Surveillance Radar (PSR) and Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR) with transponder interrogation. This combination ensures comprehensive detection of all aircraft, including those not equipped with transponders, providing an additional layer of safety.
By leveraging this technology, wind farms can effectively balance aviation safety with environmental and community considerations, addressing concerns about continuous nighttime illumination from obstacle lights, which can be disruptive to residents and wildlife.
For several years, the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority, Luftfartstilsynet, has approved the use of ADLS on a case-by-case basis. With the publication of formal requirements in 2024, ADLS is now expected to become a more common feature of wind farm developments across Norway.
By adhering to these new regulations, the wind energy sector in Norway can ensure that growth in renewable energy does not come at the expense of safety or quality of life. This balance is essential for fostering public support and ensuring the long-term success of wind energy initiatives.
South Africa’s renewable energy sector is experiencing rapid growth, with a strong focus on solar and wind power. As a result, strict regulations governing energy production are anticipated to ensure supply security and grid stability. At the same time, efforts aim to minimize the impact of this expansion on local communities, South Africa’s rich biodiversity, tourism, and the preservation of the country’s unique natural beauty.
Among these efforts, the reduction of avoidable light pollution is becoming an increasingly important goal, paving the way for Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems (ADLS) technology. To protect South Africa’s stunning natural landscapes, ADLS is particularly expected to be implemented in rural areas, tourist destinations, and wildlife reserves.
Currently, South Africa lacks binding national regulations for ADLS. Instead, project-specific requirements are applied, following guidelines from the ICAO and FAA. The precise implementation often depends on location-specific factors, such as the local fauna and environmental conditions.
Radar-based Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems utilize radar technology to detect aircraft near wind turbines. These systems are capable of identifying all flying objects, whether or not they are equipped with transponders. They may use primary radars (PSR), secondary radars (SSR), or a combination of different technologies.
The United Kingdom ranks as the sixth largest country globally in installed wind power capacity, boasting 28.5 GW as of 2023. In a landmark achievement, wind energy became the primary electricity source for the first time in May 2023.
Despite this significant progress, there is currently no specific legislation governing Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems (ADLS) in the UK, though discussions have begun under the guidance of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)—the statutory body responsible for overseeing and regulating all aspects of civil aviation in the United Kingdom. It is anticipated that ADLS will become a relevant topic in the coming years as wind energy continues to expand.
Senture has been actively involved in supporting the pending revision of CAP 764: CAA Policy and Guidelines on Wind Turbines, adopting a technology-agnostic approach. Depending on the specific location of a wind farm, solutions based on transponders or radar systems may be suitable. While it has yet to be determined whether transponder-based or radar-based detection will be required, the implementation of ADLS in general is expected to be feasible, ensuring that the UK is prepared for safe and efficient integration of these technologies into future wind energy projects.
The Netherlands is a pioneer in many fields, wind energy and ADLS being no exception. After Germany, the country has been one of the early adopters, giving it the name “Naderingsdetectie”. As opposed to their eastern neighbors, Dutch wind farm operators are not obliged to equip their turbines with ADLS.
It is however, encouraged, to avoid nuisance throught light pollution for residents and raise acceptance for wind energy. Hence, provinces are being supported by subsidizing the installation of Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems.
Light:Guard has joint forces with Topwind BV, which exclusively distributes the light:guard system in the Netherlands. The system has been tested and approved by the responsible authority Inspectie Leefomgeving en Transport (ILT). The most notable of many successful projects was the implementation of the light:guard-system at Windplan Groen, leading to over 97% lights-off-time.
Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems are a fairly new technology which many countries have yet to adopt, following the success from places like Germany.
Thus, your country might not have any regulations regarding Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems. But why not be a pioneer? Contact us and we will find out if a pilot project is feasible. Like Windplan Groen in the Netherlands with over 97% lights-off-time, for example.
Find out about our offer and requirements for a pilot project in your country:
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