Debunking Myths
There are many myths about wind energy circulated by those opposed to renewable energy in general or wind turbines in particular. Some are so outlandish that it’s hard to imagine people believe them, others are more subtle requiring a degree of technical background to refute. Since I began my career in this field four decades ago I have tried to focus on the facts–both the promise and pitfalls of wind energy. The links below explore these myths and the topics on which some myths are built.
The Measurement of Low Frequency Noise at Three UK Wind Farms
By
Hayes Mckenzie
The Measurement of Low Frequency Noise at Three UK Wind Farms–Of the 126 wind farms operating in the UK, five have been reported low frequency noise problems. Therefore, such complaints are the exception rather than a general problem which exists for all wind farms.
[Toronto’s] Exhibition Place [WindShare] Wind Turbine Bird Monitoring Program in 2003
By
Ross D James and Glenn Coady
Only two dead birds were found, one in spring and one in autumn. . . The rate of mortality is absolutely insignificant when compared to the thousands that are killed each year in Toronto at tall buildings. The study indicates clearly the wind turbine at the CNE is not going to have any significant impact on bird populations.
REPP: The Effect of Wind Development on Local Property Values
By
George Sterzinger, Fredric Beck, and Damian Kostiuk
After accounting for comparable sales outside the viewshed of the wind farms selected, defined as beyond five miles (8 kilometers) from the turbines, the study found that viewshed property generally increased in value faster than property with no view of the wind turbines.
Wind power’s benefits outweigh risk to scenery by Charles Komanoff
By
Charles Komanoff
If, by accepting a modest, largely aesthetic change in the landscape, we can heal the earth to this great extent, how in conscience can we not do so? . .
Tilting at Windmills: Public Opinion Toward Wind Energy
By
Paul Gipe
Surveys point to broad support for wind energy despite vocal objections to some projects.
Public Safety and Setbacks
By
Paul Gipe
Excerpted from Wind Energy Comes of Age by Paul Gipe, John Wiley & Sons, Inc New York (1995), …
