Norwegian aviation authorities have postponed a controversial requirement for wind turbines to install reflective safety belts. The mandate was intended to improve aircraft visibility but faced strong opposition from energy companies.
Industry groups argued the reflective belts are excessively expensive and technically challenging to install. One test installation at the Guleslettene wind farm near Florø cost 1 million Norwegian kroner and took two weeks to complete.
Energy company Eviny reported the installation proved far more complex than anticipated. Work required specific weather conditions with winds below 9 meters per second and no rain or humidity for proper adhesive bonding.
The Civil Aviation Authority has extended the deadline from the original 2025 target to December 31, 2027. This gives all parties time to develop a more balanced solution.
Industry representatives and municipal organizations want the requirement eliminated entirely. They argue the 'screaming' reflective vests conflict with existing concession terms requiring turbines to be white or light gray.
Renewable Norway, an industry association, emphasized that the visual pollution could negatively impact local acceptance of energy facilities. They also noted the high costs could affect development of new renewable energy projects.
Currently, only one turbine at Guleslettene wears the distinctive yellow reflective belt. The original plan would have required 1,391 turbines across Norway to receive similar marking.
The consultation period for the proposed regulation ended on October 17. Aviation authorities must now review all submissions before determining the final requirements.
This delay represents a significant victory for the wind energy sector. The substantial cost and practical challenges clearly caught regulators by surprise.
What solution will eventually emerge remains uncertain. All parties agree on the importance of flight safety but disagree sharply on the appropriate method to achieve it.