Latvijas Mobilais Telefons (LMT) and JSC Latvenergo have launched a research project aimed at developing a technology, unique in Latvia, for automatic detection and identification of birds in wind turbine parks.
This solution will help reduce the risk of bird mortality while promoting sustainable wind energy development and compliance with environmental protection requirements. The project is an important step for Latvia in the fields of innovation and nature conservation, as a technology of this level has not previously been available either in Latvia or in the Baltics.
As part of the project, LMT, in cooperation with scientists, ornithologists and Latvenergo experts, will develop a prototype that will combine two different technologies that have not previously been used together – radar and high-resolution cameras – in order to determine in real time the location, species and flight trajectory of birds in the vicinity of wind turbines. If the system identifies a collision risk, it will be able to send a signal to stop the turbine, thereby protecting specially protected bird species. The project’s focus is on large soaring birds, primarily storks, eagles, buzzards, cranes, as well as swans and geese.
“Latvia’s innovation ecosystem is becoming increasingly strong, and this project is an excellent example of how technology can help protect nature while promoting sustainable energy production. We are proud that LMT together with Latvenergo is creating a solution that will be significant both for Latvia and at the European level. Similar civil solutions in the world only involve video, so this new approach may have strong export potential,” emphasizes LMT President Juris Binde.
The project intends to use artificial intelligence algorithms that will enable automatic analysis of video and radar data, providing accurate and reliable bird monitoring also at night and in adverse weather conditions. This approach will significantly reduce the need for visual observations by ornithologists and will help wind park developers comply with European Union and Latvian environmental requirements. The list of detectable species will be dynamic and adjustable to each specific situation in accordance with the recommendations of a certified ornithologist.
Chairman of the Management Board of JSC Latvenergo Mārtiņš Čakste emphasizes: “The development of wind energy is not possible without care for biodiversity and innovation. The wind parks developed by Latvenergo are the most modern in the Baltics, and we have always stressed that we treat the environment in which we operate with respect. In seeking the best solutions for synergy between nature and technology, this is an opportunity for an innovation created in Latvia to protect birds and ensure the sustainability of wind parks both in our country and internationally.”
LMT and Latvenergo already began their cooperation on this project in October 2025, and after detailed development, testing and validation, the prototype will be completed in the second half of 2027. The total project budget is more than 400 thousand euros, part of which is covered by the Recovery Fund.
Originally published at https://inc-baltics.com/latvija-top-inovativa-sistema-putnu-aizsardzibai-veja-parkos/
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