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Environmental Statement
An environmental statement must be compiled prior to submitting
a planning application.
Detailed studies are undertaken to determine the effects on
visibility, noise, ecology, archaeology and electromagnetic
interference.
• Visibility
To cater for any visibility concerns that may arise, we liase
closely with communities and landowners, conducting comprehensive
studies to work out the best site layout. Computer modelling
is carried out from many viewpoints to provide realistic photomontages
of a proposed site.
• Noise
Modern turbines are quiet. Even if you were to stand amongst
the turbines, a normal conversation can be conducted.
• Ecology
Comprehensive studies are undertaken to determine if there
will be any effect on the existing environment.
We will design the windcluster to fit into the existing ecology,
or will look for alternative sites. As part of the flora and
fauna analysis, we consult with relevant bodies such as English
Nature. Birds and other wildlife are rarely affected by windclusters,
however possible effects are examined in depth. For example
wintering bird studies are undertaken to ascertain if the
proposed wind farm would have any affect on migratory routes
or regular flight paths.
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The following articlemay be useful to illustrate the scale of
'risk' turbines present to birdlife:
"It's so rare that turbines kill birds compared to hunters,
house cats, cars and tall buildings. In general, there is a lack
of undertsnding of the issue because it's so rare that turbines
kill birds compared to hunters, house cats, car windshields etc.
The American Wind Energy Association (EWEA) estimates that each
year in the US: 57 million birds die in collisions with vehicles
1.25 million birds die in collisions with tall structures (towers,
stacks, buildings) 97.5 million birds die in collisions with plate
glass 4-10 million night migrating songbirds collide with telecommunications
towers 100 million birds are killed by housecats.
Only 1-2 birds die per year per wind turbine according to studies
of wind farms made in New York, Vermont, Colorado, Oregon, Wyoming,
Minnesota and California.
A report from the AWEA concludes: 'It is important to understand
that to the degree that the use of wind-generated electricity
reduces the use of other energy sources, particularly coal and
other fossil fuels, it is likely to be a net benefit to birds.
This is because the small number of birds killed in collisions
with wind turbines is far outweighed by the wind's role in preserving
habitat and reducing greenhouse and air pollutant emissions."
source AWEA 2001
Grazing animals and horses are oblivious to the presence of the
turbines. As the blades rotate very slowly, and there is little
noise generated, animals carry on with their normal activities
as though the turbines are not even there.
Interference of Radio and TV Signals
Wind Prospect ensures that local television and radio reception
are not affected through careful consultation with stake holders.
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