The energy transition is in full swing. Solar and wind farms are proliferating. However, their size, remote location and valuable materials also make them vulnerable to sabotage, theft and vandalism. Securing a wind farm is therefore not an afterthought, but a strategic necessity.
From expensive copper piping to acts of sabotage, those in the industry know that wind turbines are quite vulnerable.
A wind turbine contains many components, including metres of copper pipes. Thieves are increasingly targeting these precious pipes and removing them from turbines just like that. In addition, we see that deliberate sabotage is a trend. Think of other countries wanting harm, activists and terrorism, as explained in this article from EenVandaag.
When a wind turbine fails, this already causes an immediate loss of production. But when the energy production of an entire wind farm is interrupted, the costs quickly run into tens of thousands or even millions of euros. Good security deters unwanted guests and prevents break-ins and sabotage.
With the growth of wind farms, there is also an increasing need for clear security arrangements. Where solar parks already have certain security guidelines, these are now increasingly being applied to wind farms as well. For example, insurers may impose the following requirements:
A KIWA 3 certification is often required for the construction phase. When the park is operational, KIWA 4 certification applies.
Nowadays, camera surveillance is increasingly being deployed at wind farms. These can be both visible and invisible cameras. Visible cameras have a preventive effect. They stand out and discourage intruders even before they try anything. Invisible surveillance, such as thermal cameras or sensors, are often deployed in sensitive areas such as near vulnerable components or on the inside of the turbine.
Not only do cameras provide clear images as evidence in incidents, but they also detect intruders. In case of suspicious movements, the camera immediately sends a notification to the control room. This allows rapid intervention.
Securing a wind farm only starts when the farm is operational, right? That is a misconception. It is precisely during construction that the site is particularly risky. In this phase, milder requirements often apply (KIWA 3) and temporary camera surveillance, for example in the form of a mobile camera mast, suffices.
Moreover, camera surveillance during construction can also help monitor progress and verify deliveries.
It is not only important for cameras to detect suspicious movements, they must also be monitored and followed up. Reports from the cameras reach a private control room that is connected to our systems 24/7.
If a suspicious situation arises, the control room immediately calls in a security guard or the police. This is then quickly on site so that damage can be prevented.
Especially when sabotage is involved, quick follow-up is crucial. Criminals often test the response first by triggering a false alarm. Is there no response? Then they know they are in the clear.
No wind farm is the same, which is why securing a wind farm requires customisation. One farm is located in the polder, another on an industrial estate. Some energy projects are compact, others consist of dozens of hectares.
Soldefence tailors security completely to the situation. We always start with a risk analysis and security scan to map the premises. We then advise on the appropriate security measures. Moreover, we make sure you get a certification that you can hand over to your insurer. This makes it easier to negotiate claims or premiums.
Find out more about secure wind farm? Feel free to take contact with us. We will be happy to answer your questions in a personal conversation.
There are no national rules for wind farm security. However, insurers are imposing increasingly stringent requirements on energy project security. For instance, KIWA 3 certification is mandatory during construction and when the farm is operational, KIWA 4 certification is required.
There are several risks, including theft of copper pipes, vandalism and sabotage. These risks can lead to turbine failure and thousands of euros in damages.
Yes, during construction, KIWA 3 certification is mandatory and camera surveillance is recommended. This is because valuable material is often left on site.
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