Microgeneration Schemes
Microgeneration: BCT's position statement
BCT has concerns about the impacts of climate change and climate unpredictability on bats and on the wider environment. We therefore welcome measures that will reduce carbon dioxide emissions and proposals to make the installation of microgeneration technologies easier for owner/occupiers. However, owner/occupiers wishing to install microgeneration technologies will need to consider bats if they are to avoid potential crimes from being committed under the Conservation of Species and Habitats Regulations 2010.
The potential impact on bats will arise from either:
(a) the installation of equipment and materials that passes through a roof void where a bat roost is located within the development. This applies to the installation of any fixtures to the roof or alterations to the roof such as might be required for solar panels; or,
(b) operationally where there is a risk for bat strike against moving turbine blades where a micro-turbine is in the vicinity of a bat roost or along flight lines. This maybe within the development or nearby.
The size and roosting behaviour of bats mean that the presence of roosts can often go un-noticed. BCT would therefore look for detailed guidance notes from statutory bodies to be published for both owner/occupiers and installers and manufacturers, and the obligation for an owner/occupier to seek the advice of the SNCO when installing a microgeneration scheme where there bats are or likely to be affected.
ENDS
Further information: Microgeneration Schemes: Risks, Evidence and Recommendations
Microturbine research 
Scientists at the University of Stirling are conducting the world's first study into the effects of micro-turbines on birds and bats. Micro-turbine owners are invited to take part in the study by completing an online questionnaire: http://www.sbes.stir.ac.uk/research/ecology/micro-turbines.html.
Recent research (2009) by Long et al published in the Proceedings of the Institute of Acoustics has investigated the interactions between bat echolocation pulses and moving microturbine blades.
Micro-turbine bat mortality incidents (to June 2007)
