MAX deploys on floating platform as Ecowende develops world's most ecological wind farm

Robin is set to deploy four flagship MAX bird detection radars to support Ecowende in the development of the world’s most ecological wind farm. 

Wind farm operators have a tough line to tread. They must balance vital green energy production with the impact of turbines on surrounding wildlife. Especially birds.

Ecowende is pressing for a sustainable future for offshore wind; one that positively contributes to the North Sea’s ecology. Their planned wind farm will be the largest in the Dutch North Sea, providing a huge 3% of the current Dutch electricity demand with clean energy. 

The Ecowende wind farm will be located about 53 kilometres off the Dutch coast, near IJmuiden. With an installed capacity of approximately 760 MW, Ecowende aims to have its wind farm fully operational and commissioned in 2026.

Their guiding principles rely on harmony between vital green energy sites and the wildlife that surrounds them, putting expert monitoring and research programmes at centre stage. This is where our flagship 3D bird detection radar, MAX, comes in.

MAX is deployed across the globe to support the development and operation of both on-and-offshore wind farms. It has informed pioneering mathematical and predictive models and critical ecological research, but until now, it’s never been installed on a floating platform. 

MIDO - A partnership to make waves

As part of the project and for the first time ever, MAX will deploy on a floating platform with MIDO. One of the four systems deployed will be installed on a custom-built power-generating  floating platform, FLORA 1. 

MIDO designs and develops specialised ocean energy technology. Based on proven engineering designs of wave energy converters, FLORA 1 will achieve renewable power generation for autonomous operation. Autonomy like this is fundamental for uninterrupted data collection.

From FLORA 1, our radar will detect, track and log the detailed data it collects on bird movements, behavioural and cyclical patterns, speed and height. All of this information is integral in forming part of Ecowende’s research to develop one of the largest wind parks in the North Sea. 

Our floating installation completes one of four radars to be installed on the site in total, with the other three located on turbines spread across the offshore wind farm to monitor birds and bats.

DHI - Seamless camera integration 

Positioned on turbines, three MAX radars will be coupled with cameras and an AI species recognition solution (MUSE) provided by DHI, technology leaders in camera operation. 

MAX can classify birds by size, and by integrating with DHI’s MUSE solution, even more information can be gathered automatically. This includes information on the actual bird species being observed.

The MUSE system provides frequent, high-quality observations without the logistical constraints and risks associated with human access to offshore turbines and substations.

Robin's long-standing relationship with DHI will bring another level of detail and insight to Ecowende's dedicated research. Having paired the MUSE system with MAX on a prior project, the robust compatibility of our sensors is sure to further the quality of data collection.

MAX - Built for unparalleled insight

With cutting-edge radar technologies, Robin empowers aviation, security and ecology heroes to set the pace for a better world. MAX is built, from the start, for bird detection. 

Our system provides size, speed, height, location and flight path data for each bird or bat it detects. Operating 24/7 in all weather conditions, it can track thousands simultaneously, organising data into one informative and intuitive interface.

With the fastest rotation speed in the market, it gives track updates every second, allowing uniquely detailed 3D visualisation of bird flight paths, including exports to Google Earth.

Robin VP Wind and Environmental Practice, Sibylle Giraud, said: “Ecowende is the perfect example of the sheer passion for innovation you can find in this industry. There’s a real determination to keep finding new ways to protect wildlife while helping the green transition, and we’re very proud to be part of that.”

“Like us, Ecowende will break ground and take risks to make essential technologies scalable and sustainable. We're delighted to accompany them on this fantastic project, we'll deploy no less than four flagship radars and our first-ever MAX on a floating platform.”

A match made in Holland 

Ecowende are teaming up with experienced partners to realise a pioneering ambition. In doing so, they aim to raise the bar in green energy development by leading the way with an affordable, sustainable and responsible offshore wind park.

For Ecowende and other future wind farms, the company envisions a flourishing ecosystem, with minimal impact on birds, bats and the underwater world.

Not only does their pilot project of ecological innovations have a positive ecological impact, but it also generates knowledge and increases understanding and support for offshore wind energy in the Netherlands and beyond.

The aim is to create a new ecological benchmark for the development and construction of wind farms at the North Sea, making it possible to build offshore wind farms in the future that have a “net positive impact” on nature. This is important because there are big ambitions for offshore wind, an acceleration is needed but in a way that contributes to nature above and below water.

The Ecowende project represents what can be achieved with collaboration, as each partner will bring unique insights and strengths. Working with exceptional and like-minded innovators, Ecowende are realising ambitions of becoming the first wind farm in harmony with nature.