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Is a wind power project being developed close to you?
If you've heard that a windfarm or turbine is proposed near to where you live or visit, you probably have some questions.
This document will try to answer some of those questions and also suggest places where you can find out more about wind energy in the UK.
Why has a wind farm been proposed?
Who's doing it?
Aren't the turbines noisy?
Don't wind turbines spoil the landscape?
Aren't they dangerous?
Isn't this wind farm the thin end of the wedge?
What is Country Guardian?
How can I find out more about modern wind farming?
Why has a wind farm been proposed?
Successive Governments have, since the late 1980s, supported the development of renewable energy technologies. Initially, this was in response to fears about fossil fuel shortages, but more recently, growth in wind power especially all around the world has continued because of both climate change (caused in part by the use of fossil fuels) and also a growing demand for electricity which, in many places, people are reluctant to see nuclear power stations provide. Previously most wind projects were supported under Government contracts - NFFO or their Scottish or Northern Irish equivalent. This has recently changed, with a new obligation on electricity suppliers to replace the NFFO support mechanism.
Who's doing it?
If the project is being proposed by one of our members, you'll find further information on the project by searching our map of the UK. Member developers work to high standards and will be helpful in providing information to local people about the specific project.
Aren't the turbines noisy?
Early turbines were, but modern machines are remarkably quiet. Of course, the combination of machine and location is critical in determining the exact characteristics and the developer will help explain what steps they have taken to minimise sound from the windmills. The best way to answer the question is to experience a modern turbine personally - why not visit a similar machine and decide for yourself. Many sites have visitor facilities. There are very strict controls on noise and no developer will attempt to build a project that they will not be allowed to operate.
Don't wind turbines spoil the landscape?
Turbines aren't invisible, but sensitively sited wind farms are, to many people, a welcome addition to a landscape. Windmills have existed in the UK for hundreds of years and, in their time, were as controversial as some find modern wind turbines. Have a look at our Photo Stop for examples of wind farms in the UK. Developers will explain how they have come to make the recommendations that are in a proposal and will listen to your opinions.
Aren't they dangerous?
Nearly 40,000 turbines re operating around the world and some have working for nearly 20 years. No member of the public has EVER been hurt by a wind turbine.
Isn't this wind farm the thin end of the wedge?
There are no plans to put 'a turbine on every hill' or 'cover the UK' or any such idea. Our best guess is that by 2010, there might be around 3,500 turbines in the UK. That's 0.0003% of the land. There might be more, but this will be determined entirely by public choice - more people are buying 'green electricity', for example. In any case, unless we choose to build more nuclear reactors, burn more coal, or import electricity from abroad, renewable energy, including wind power, has an increasingly certain future.
What is Country Guardian?
It's an organisation that opposes wind turbines. For a critique of some of their material, click here
How can I find out more about modern wind farming?
Browse this site - we've made it to help answer your questions. It is important that when you make your mind up, you do so with the most knowledge at your fingertips. If there is anything else we can help you with, or there are any general points that you would like us to answer, we'll do our very best to help you.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
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