Wind energy and insects: reviewing the state of knowledge and identifying potential interactions.

ABSTRACT: In 2023 the wind industry hit a milestone of one terawatt of installed capacity globally. That amount is expected to double within the next decade as billions of dollars are invested in new wind projects annually. Wildlife mortality is a primary concern regarding the proliferation of wind power, and many studies have investigated bird and bat interactions. Little is known about the interactions between wind turbines and insects, despite these animals composing far more biomass than vertebrates. Turbine placement, coloration, shape, heat output, and lighting may attract insects to turbines. Insects attract insectivorous animals, which may be killed by the turbines. Compiling current knowledge about these interactions and identifying gaps in knowledge is critical as wind power grows rapidly.

SUBMITTER: Weschler M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11485068 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature