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Renewable energy developer VSB has successfully commissioned the Extertal Wind Farm in the northeast of the Lippe District. The project comprises two Enercon E-138 turbines, with a combined installed capacity of 8.4 MW, enough to supply electricity for approximately 15,000 people, exceeding the annual consumption of the municipality of Extertal by about one-third. The wind farm is scheduled for official inauguration in spring 2026.
Construction and final commissioning were completed in December 2025, following roughly 14 months of development. Under the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), the municipality will receive a financial contribution of 0.2 euro cents per kilowatt-hour fed into the grid for each turbine.
Thomas Winkler, Managing Director of VSB Deutschland, stated, “We are pleased to start the year with the grid connection and successful commissioning of the Extertal wind farm. We thank all partners, companies, landowners, and the municipality for their trust and professional cooperation.”
Dr. Felix Grolman, CEO of VSB Group, added, “The Extertal project demonstrates the synergy between technological innovation, regional value creation, and ecological responsibility. AI solutions integrated into planning and turbine operation enhance efficiency and economic viability.”
AI-Supported Bird Protection and Agricultural Integration
The wind farm is equipped with AI-powered monitoring systems to balance energy generation with wildlife protection. Each turbine has four 360° panoramic cameras that detect agricultural activities such as mowing and harvesting. The system enables short-term turbine shutdowns when machinery is nearby, protecting birds of prey, including red kites, during hunting periods.
Project Outlook and Regional Expansion
Restoration of turbine sites, access roads, and transport areas will begin as weather conditions permit. The official inauguration festival for the wind farm will take place in spring 2026.
VSB is also developing the Arnsberg Wind Farm in the Hochsauerland District, consisting of three turbines with a total capacity of 18 MW, expected to be commissioned in spring 2027. Additionally, a turbine developed in collaboration with a local citizens’ energy cooperative in Dörentrup-Wendlinghausen has been supplying clean electricity since 2022.
