SHADOW Module
Analyse and mitigate wind turbine shadow flicker
The SHADOW module in windPRO allows you to calculate and visualise the shadow flicker impact caused by one or more wind turbines on nearby buildings or open areas. Whether you're assessing a single window or a wide development zone, the SHADOW module helps ensure your wind energy project meets regulatory limits and minimises nuisance to residents.
Plan clean energy with clear skies in mind
Targeted Shadow Impact Analysis
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Calculate annual shadow flicker hours, days with flicker, and maximum daily impact at specific receptors (e.g. windows, patios, lawns).
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Perform assessments using either worst-case scenarios (turbines always running, sun always shining) or realistic statistical models that consider:
- Actual turbine operating hours
- Wind direction sectors
- Monthly sunshine probabilities
Flicker Maps & 3D Terrain Modeling
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Generate high-resolution flicker maps that account for terrain elevation, obstacles, and sun position throughout the year.
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Use digital contour maps to perform ZVI (Zone of Visual Influence) analysis, checking whether a turbine and sun are visible from each receptor point.
Shadow Calendar & Curtailment Planning
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Create shadow calendars for each receptor or turbine, showing exactly when and how long shadow flicker will occur.
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These calendars can be exported and implemented directly into turbine control systems for automatic curtailment—turning turbines off during critical flicker periods to stay within allowed limits.
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Use flicker downtime data in your loss and uncertainty assessments.
Real-World Simulation Capabilities
- Define shadow receptors as:
- Points (e.g. windows or balconies)
- Areas (e.g. yards, gardens, building footprints)
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Customize:
- Receptor orientation and dimensions
- Area raster size for detailed simulations
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Input data for shadow simulations includes:
- Wind turbine positions and specifications (over 1,000 types in the WTG catalog)
- Obstacles like terrain, forests, or buildings
- Solar data from built-in statistical databases
Professional Reporting & Output Options
The SHADOW module provides detailed, ready-to-use documentation for permitting, public consultation, or internal planning:
1. Main Report
Includes maps of wind turbines and shadow receptors.Summarises shadow flicker hours per receptor.
2. Recipent Calendars
Tabular and graphic formats showing flicker dates and duration.
Includes monthly reduction values based on actual sunshine and turbine operations.
3. Turbine Calendars
Plan smart curtailment strategies to comply with regulations
4. Flicker Impact Maps
Contour maps (isolines) showing shadow impact across larger areas.
Fully customisable: adjust isoline values, colors, and styles.
Export options: GIS shapefiles and Google Earth (KMZ).
Globally Recognized Shadow Flicker Calculation Standards
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Fully compliant with international guidelines and best practices
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Supports project approval processes in countries with strict shadow flicker regulations
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Trusted by wind developers, consultants, and permitting authorities worldwide
Manage shadow flicker in your wind energy project
Use the SHADOW module in windPRO to ensure community acceptance, regulatory compliance, and smart energy planning.
Recommended Training
Learn more about SHADOW with the tailored courses:
- Shadow & Visual (Eng)
- UMWEL (DE)
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Visualization Modules
PHOTOMONTAGE
Visualisation of WTGs on photo or artificial landscape.
ANIMATION
Animated presentation of a photomontage.
SketchUp INTEGRATION
Import and export from SketchUp.
Use SHADOW for Permitting & Environmental Impact
Permitting wind energy projects requires more than just technical performance — it demands regulatory compliance, environmental sensitivity, and strong community engagement. Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) must be must be thorough and the findings well-communicated or the entire project can face costly delays or rejection.
