Green campaigner pushes for turbine noise guideline revision

Environmental Protection UK urges the government to revise its guideline on wind turbine installation. The pro-environment group informs that the UK’s current wind turbines are too large that the noise emitted from the rotating blades could have an effect to those households living in close proximity.

Experts working for the green group inform that the guideline on tolerable noise levels for wind turbines was due for amendment 11 years ago. They believe that the changes in technology are not yet been reflected in the current rules. In addition, environment specialists argue that the directive needs a major overhaul, otherwise plans for new wind farms are in risk of being rejected.

Moreover, the green campaigner says that the guideline is designed for turbine installations of up to 90ft only, but several turbines built in wind farms across the country are three times higher than the allowed height. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband was earlier reported of planning to build 4,000 wind turbines, most of which will be at least 270ft high, to supplement 219 wind farms in the UK.

The group additionally criticizes the guideline’s conviction that the rustling of leaves could help mask the noise coming from the turning wind turbine blades. The green supporter informs that today’s turbines are oversized that any masking on the ground could be no effect.

Meanwhile, the British Wind Energy Association reports that a 2007 study found only four objections from approximately 2,000 wind turbines being installed and about 94 per cent of households living near to turbines are in favour of them.