Competition seeks ideas to mitigate windfarm radar risk

Launched by the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), the £2m innovation competition is specifically looking for solutions that can deliver future offshore windfarm mitigation for UK Air Defence surveillance, including alternative technologies that could fill or remove gaps in radar coverage. According to DASA, the competition should give a boost to the offshore wind sector by removing some of the barriers to more widespread windfarm rollout in UK waters.

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“Crucial innovation like this is vital if we are to meet our renewable energy targets,” said Adam Moore, DASA delivery manager.

“This competition will not only help us meet our green energy needs but it will help boost UK prosperity, entrepreneurs and innovators by investing in their game-changing technology.”

Offshore turbines, when in the line of sight of radar, can have a detrimental effect on civilian and military radar systems. Radar signals where turbines are in line-of-sight comprise reflections from the static and moving elements, bringing different challenges for radar operators. While reflections from the stationary elements of wind turbines can be removed by utilising stationary clutter filters, the rotating turbine blades impart a Doppler shift on the reflection that cannot be easily removed.