End of Constant Blinking Lights on Wind Turbines Approaches

In a significant move towards enhancing the acceptance of wind energy among local residents, the authorities have implemented new regulations regarding the lighting of wind turbines during nighttime. Effective from January 1st of this year, the red blinking lights on wind turbines will now only activate when an aircraft is in proximity. This change aims to alleviate disturbances caused by the continuous flashing lights, which many residents have found bothersome.

According to the Berlin-Brandenburg aviation authority, there have been a total of 815 applications submitted for the implementation of demand-controlled night lighting for wind energy installations (WEA). It's important to note that some applications may pertain to multiple installations and operators. As reported by the Brandenburg State Ministry of Transport in response to an inquiry from the BSW parliamentary group, there are over 4,000 wind turbines in the state.

As of the end of February, more than 600 permits for the installation of demand-controlled night lighting had been granted. However, 36 applications were rejected, primarily because the turbines were situated within controlled airspace. The remaining 166 applications are expected to be processed by the end of the first half of 2025.

Not all wind energy installations are required to adopt the new lighting technology. The necessity for installation is determined by the turbine's location and height. In urban and densely populated areas, marking is mandatory for turbines exceeding 150 meters in height, while for those outside urban settings, the threshold is 100 meters.

For low-flying aircraft, such as those used in police, military, or emergency operations, lighting may be required for turbines as short as 20 meters. In other circumstances, the requirement for marking is assessed based on air traffic safety. The Federal Association of Wind Energy has indicated that the implementation of demand-controlled lighting can reduce the disruptive blinking by up to 95%.