Danish windfarms pose 'no likelihood of impact' to seaduck

Two windfarm projects in Denmark pose 'no likelihood of significant impact' to wintering seaduck, according to consultancy firm NIRAS.

The two farms – Omø Syd and Jammerland Bugt – are set to be built in an area with important numbers of wintering Common Eider, Common Scoter and Velvet Scoter. The review was requested by the Danish Energy Agency (DEA). 

Some 600 Velvet Scoter are estimated to winter in Danish waters (Dennis Morrison).

Public consultations held in 2017 and 2019 highlighted concerns regarding potential cumulative impacts on bird life and DEA subsequently requested an independent assessment of the potential displacement of the birds in October 2019.

However, report findings state that the overall impacts will cause 'no likelihood of a significant impact'. However, the DEA will request that the developers supplement the data on birds. Taking this on board, the DEA will then decide if both projects can be approved.

Wind energy currently covers approximately 8% of Denmark's total energy consumption. Velvet Scoter is estimated to have undergone a population decline of 30-49% over the last three decades and is listed as Vulnerable. As a result, it's one of the species to which the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds applies.