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Wind energy and the environment
Are wind turbines noisy?
Why don't they make turbines that look like old-fashioned windmills?
Do wind turbines impact negatively on tourism?
Are wind turbines ugly?
Do wind turbines frighten livestock?
Can I visit a wind farm?
Are wind turbines noisy?
Modern production wind turbine generators (WTGs) are not noisy; although some test versions are still having problems. If you were to stand under a modern turbine in a light breeze all you will hear will be the sound of the rotor blades as they pass through the air. In a strong wind you will only hear the wind itself.
In NZ there are strict guidelines for the noise that is acceptable for wind farms. The relevant New Zealand Standard (#6808 of 1998) is:
"Acoustics: Assessment and Measurement of Sound from Wind Turbines".
This standard is based on an assessment of world best practice and states that the sound levels measured at any residential site must not exceed the greater of 40dB or background noise +5dB. By way of comparison whispering measures about 30dB and refrigerators 43dB.
Have a look at our dedicated 'Noise' page for a more detailed look at this issue.
Why not visit a wind farm and experience it for yourself?
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Why don't they make turbines that look like old fashioned windmills?
The old fashioned windmill is viewed with nostalgia, and some people prefer the look of them to that of their modern counterparts. Just because wind turbines are modern, it doesn't mean they won't look just as good over time.
A modern wind turbine generator (WTG) is simply an improved windmill. Every aspect of their design has been optimised, making them far more efficient than old style windmills at generating electricity. To make them look more old-fashioned would result in less efficiency and more expensive electricity.
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Do wind turbines impact negatively on tourism?
Revenues from tourism and related activities represents a significant portion of most countries' GDP. For this reason much work has been done on the relationship between the level of revenues deriving from tourism/the service industry and WTGs. These studies clearly show that where wind developments are new to an area or country, such as is the case for New Zealand, they can be a significant tourist attraction.
Further, NZ specific, analysis of the wind energy/tourism relationship would be useful.
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Are wind turbines ugly?
Work from overseas shows that the overwhelming majority approve of wind turbines and consider them to be graceful and soothing. Unfortunately such words do not sell newspapers and as a result the descriptions that make it to the press are usually very different. Additional studies are required in order to determine attitudes of the NZ public towards electricity generation from wind versus other forms such as coal, oil, gas and hydro. NZWEA is working to ensure that such studies are carried out.
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Do wind turbines frighten livestock?
Wind farms are popular with farmers because their land can continue to be used for growing crops or grazing livestock while also generating electricity and hence revenue. Sheep, cows and horses are not disturbed by wind turbines.
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Can I visit a wind farm?
The high degree of public interest, support and enthusiasm for wind energy is a vital part of the continued development of this dynamic new industry. For this reason we are only too keen to encourage you to visit a wind farm site in order to see an operational turbine for yourselves. If you would like to visit a wind farm we would be much more likely to be able to help you with the arrangements if you have a group of 20-30 people. If you have such a group then please feel free to send us an e-mail with some details of your request.
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