Energy savings at wind turbines through demand-controlled night marking

Systems for demand-controlled or demand-based night marking ensure that the obstacle marking of wind turbines – i.e. the flashing of the lights at night – is only activated when necessary. To do this, the systems monitor the airspace and only switch on the lighting when a flying object approaches. This not only makes the night sky clearer and darker for residents, but also saves energy.

The approximate amount saved can be calculated using the example of the systems from Light:Guard GmbH. Based on about 90% light-off time and 12-hour long nights, the result looks like this:

• Energy saving: The 800 ADLS systems installed on around 3,500 wind turbines save 750 kWh of energy every day. This adds up to 8.55 tonnes of CO₂ per month – a saving equivalent to the emissions of 21 diesel cars , each of which travels 2,500 km per month.
  
• Own consumption: Of course, the technology also requires energy. Self-consumption amounts to about 3.78 tons of CO₂ per month, i.e. about half of the energy saved. Despite this consumption, the balance of the ADLS systems remains positive.
  

The overall context of wind power shows how efficient the technology is: While the ADLS systems cause emissions, they are minimal compared to the greenhouse gases saved by wind energy. A single wind turbine saves an average of 1,500 tons of CO₂ per month – a figure that underlines the positive effect of this technology.

In addition to energy efficiency, demand-driven night labelling has another advantage: it increases the acceptance of wind energy among the population. Less flashing at night means less light pollution and a better quality of life for residents.

Demand-driven night markings are an example of how modern technology can optimize the use of renewable energies. They show that progress and sustainability can go hand in hand – a win for the environment and people.