In 2014, the "Forum Fischschutz und Fischabstieg" was able to develop a common understanding of the size of a screen up to which functioning mechanical fish protection and descent systems, including the necessary cleaning technology, can be implemented. The objective of the research underlying this Fact Sheet 04 was to verify whether the statement of the "Forum Fischschutz und Fischabstieg" is confirmed in the actual operation of existing fish protection screens. Fact Sheet 04 "Technische Funktionsfähigkeit großer Fischschutzrechen in der Praxis bestätigt (Technical functionality of large fish protection screens confirmed in practice)" is available for download.

The core statements of Fact Sheet 04 are:

• The statement of the "Forum Fischschutz und Fischabstieg" that there is currently a state of knowledge and technology with which functional fish protection screens at hydropower plants (WKA) (up to approx. 50 m³/s impact per screen) including the necessary cleaning technology for fish from 10 cm size can be realized is confirmed.
• The use of trash rack cleaners with tooth- or brush-like elements can avoid problems with permanent installations at fish screens with small bar spacing.
• The planning, design and technical implementation of fish screens and trash rack cleaning should be given high importance for the functionality of wind turbines.