Nature conservation efforts at Windplanblauw: artificial reefs and resting areas

This unique project features onshore installations and offshore installations in the shallow waters of Lake IJsselmeer. Approved in November 2019, the entire wind farm was fully commissioned by 2024. 

Ecological considerations have been part of the project from the outset. Situated within a Natura 2000 site, Windplanblauw adheres to the European bird and habitat directives to protect biodiversity. 

To mitigate the impact on local wildlife, several measures have been implemented. These include establishing a designated resting area for the great crested grebe along the IJsselmeerdijk, which is closed off to shipping for a length of 7.8 km, about 200 reef balls made of eco-friendly and pH-neutral concrete have been deployed on the lake bottom near the wind farm. 

These structures provide a substrate for mussels and create habitat for freshwater fish species, in turn potentially enhancing the food supply for the great crested grebe and other waterfowl.