At HiDef Aerial Surveying Ltd, we specialise in delivering high-quality, data-driven insights that support the successful development and operation of renewable energy projects. Our team combines advanced statistical techniques with state-of-the-art data science tools to address the unique challenges faced by wind farm developers.

Trusted by Regulators and Industry Leaders

With a proven track record of collaboration with regulators and statutory nature conservation bodies (SNCBs), HiDef has built a reputation for excellence in developing and applying innovative analytical tools. When you work with us, you can be confident that your project is in safe hands – backed by methodologies trusted by the authorities responsible for shaping environmental policy and practice. We have a strong focus on reproducibility, and ensure the use of quality-assured open-source coding techniques throughout our analytical pipelines.

Advanced Tool-Based Analysis

Our expertise includes leveraging and enhancing industry-standard tools to conduct precise and reliable analyses, such as Collision Risk Modelling (CRM) for birds. These approaches are vital for understanding and mitigating potential environmental impacts, helping you navigate regulatory requirements with confidence.

Comprehensive EIA Support for Ornithology and Marine Mammals

In addition to CRM, we provide a full suite of analyses tailored for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) in the renewable energy sector:

• Baseline Density and Abundance Analyses: We specialise in baseline assessments of bird and mammal populations using data collected from a variety of sources including our Digital Aerial Surveys. With extensive experience in processing and analysing spatial data, we provide accurate density and abundance estimates critical for informed decision-making.
• Displacement Analysis: Assessing the likelihood and extent to which species, such as seabirds, may avoid areas near wind farm operations, enabling accurate impact evaluation.
• Population Viability Analysis (PVA): Modelling population dynamics to understand potential long-term effects on vulnerable species, offering robust evidence to inform mitigation strategies.
• Density Estimation with MRSea and inlabru: Utilising cutting-edge statistical frameworks such as MRSea and inlabru, we generate precise and spatially explicit models of species density and distribution in marine and coastal environments. These tools provide powerful insights into patterns of wildlife abundance, critical for both planning and impact mitigation.
• Power analysis: We produce both spatial and non-spatial power analyses for survey designs; this allows us to analyse the power of our surveys to detect change at the design stage, optimising efficiency.
• Flight height analysis: We use our high quality digital video footage to estimate bird flight heights. Our photogrammetry approach provides accurate, cost-effective estimates of flight height distributions for a range of seabird species including gannet, kittiwake and large gull species.
• Behavioural and Acoustic Impact Modelling: Evaluating potential noise impacts on marine mammals, such as porpoises and seals, during construction and operational phases.

Bespoke Tool Development

When off-the-shelf solutions don’t meet your needs, we step in with innovative, custom-built, interactive applications. For example, our stochastic Collision Risk Model (sCRM) – developed in collaboration with SNCBs and regulators – sets a new standard for dynamic, probabilistic modelling. These tools are designed to deliver actionable insights, ensuring your project not only complies with regulatory requirements but also contributes to advancing best practice in environmental assessment.

Spatial Data and GIS Expertise

With years of experience managing and analysing complex spatial datasets, we’re experts in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). From mapping wildlife distributions to visualising project impacts, we turn data into actionable insights, helping you make informed, spatially-aware decisions.

Cutting-Edge Statistical Techniques

Whether your project calls for frequentist or Bayesian distribution modelling, our team’s expertise ensures the right approach for your data. These advanced statistical methodologies allow us to assess patterns, forecast outcomes, and quantify uncertainties—giving you a solid foundation for strategic planning.

Why Choose Us?

• Regulatory Trust: Our tools and analyses are trusted by regulators and SNCBs, providing you with a competitive edge and peace of mind.
• Experience: A proven track record of successful collaborations with leading wind farm developers.
• Innovation: Pioneering solutions tailored to the renewable energy sector.
• Precision: Rigorous, reproducible analyses grounded in the latest scientific research and best practice.
• Commitment: Partnering with you to achieve environmentally responsible and economically viable outcomes.

Let’s Work Together

Partner with HiDef to ensure your projects are backed by the most reliable and innovative statistical analyses available. Together, we can help drive the transition to a sustainable future.