Biodiv-Wind pioneers cutting-edge artificial intelligence-driven wildlife detection systems, focusing on wind turbines. The company is driven by the dual mission of enhancing energy production efficiency while safeguarding wildlife. Since 2015, they’ve installed over 500 systems in Europe and overseas, including France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Belgium, and even in Brazil.
With a diverse team of 47 experts spanning IT, engineering, and ecology, Biodiv-Wind seamlessly integrates technology and ecological understanding.
Interview with Sébastien Massé, Business Developer at Biodiv-Wind.
Easy Engineering: A brief description of the company and its activities.
Sébastien Massé: Our mission marries biodiversity protection with wind energy development, creating adaptable and efficient flying fauna detection systems. Recognized globally for our AI and detection innovations, we collaborate closely with clients on avian and chiropteran aspects in wind projects. This extends beyond video-based systems, now encompassing audio and radar technology for enhanced bat detection and trajectory analysis.
E.E: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
Sébastien Massé: Biodiv-Wind SAS primarily focuses on two main areas of activity:
- Accurate Surveys using AI and Ornithologists in Development Phase. We employ a synergistic approach that combines Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology with the expertise of ornithologists. During the developmental phase of wind turbine projects. This collaborative effort ensures precise assessments of flying fauna populations and behavior, aiding in informed decision-making.
- Deployment of our Advanced Detection Systems on Wind Turbines called “SafeWind”. We specialize in the design, implementation, and operation of detection systems integrated onto wind turbines. These systems utilize AI algorithms to detect and monitor the presence of flying fauna, contributing to the safety of both wildlife and wind turbine operations. When wildlife ventures too close to the turbines, the detection systems can trigger protective actions, including halting turbine operations, thus minimizing the risk of collisions, and promoting responsible energy production.
E.E: What’s the news about new products?
S.M: Our recent focus has been on expanding the scope of our detection capabilities. Until recently, our primary method revolved around video detection.
We have 2 new products:
- The AudioBat an audio-based detection system
- The XBird Radar a radar-based detection system.
E.E: What are the ranges of products?
S.M: Our product ranges encompass a comprehensive suite of advanced wildlife detection solutions tailored for wind energy environments. This includes our pioneering video-based detection systems, which have been a cornerstone of our technology. With the recent integration of AudioBat technology from Wildlife Acoustic, we’ve expanded our capabilities to acoustically identify bats in wind farms. Additionally, our radar detection systems offer an extended range, providing enhanced insights into flight trajectories and behaviors of flying fauna. These integrated solutions collectively empower us to offer a holistic approach to wildlife protection and responsible wind energy development.
E.E: At what stage is the market where you are currently active?
S.M: The industry in which we are actively involved, focusing on wildlife detection for wind energy, is presently positioned at a crucial juncture of expansion and innovation. With a growing number of participants entering the market and an increasing array of solutions being introduced, maintaining our role as historical pioneers becomes imperative. Upholding our position at the forefront of innovation is essential to retain our competitive edge.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
S.M: The wildlife protection solutions offered by all the industry actors are gaining recognition among various regulatory bodies that approve wind farm construction. As a result, the market is gradually transitioning from prototype-based products to more standardized solutions. This shift is driven by the increasing acknowledgment of the effectiveness and reliability of our solutions in mitigating environmental impacts.
E.E: What are the most innovative products marketed?
S.M: Our Integrated Solutions: The integration of video, audio, and radar capabilities within our detection systems serves as a testament to our dedication to innovation. This comprehensive approach enables us to precisely tailor our offerings to meet the specific needs of each of our customers.
E.E: What estimations do you have for 2023?
S.M: Our projections for 2023 anticipate continued growth and impact. We expect to see an increased adoption of our advanced wildlife detection solutions within the wind energy industry. As regulatory bodies and stakeholders increasingly recognize the effectiveness of our technology, we anticipate further expansion into new markets and regions. Overall, we foresee a year of progress, partnerships, and positive environmental impact in 2023.
