On-shore and off-shore wind turbines are tall structures and therefore they are likely to have some sort of visual impact on the surrounding environment. Modelling of predicted effects through visualisations such as photomontages (‘life-like’ images of the proposed wind farm in a given view which are created using photographs and computer models of turbines) is essential. This information will be used to assess the impact of the wind farm on the landscape and visual receptors, such as road users and householders in the study area. These photomontages have become one of the key components of the Environmental Impact Assessment for a wind farm and are therefore an essential tool for planners in landscape and visual assessment work.

VRS uses specialised photography techniques and software to predict the visual impact of windfarms, whether these are located on shore or whether they are off-shore. During these last two years, VRS, together with its UK partner Citrine UK Limited has produced verified photomontages of wind farms for top international wind-energy clients.