1. Student Number: 11026790
Name: Joshua Neale Phillips
What are the reasons
for such a Negative
perception towards
Wind farms in rural
Pembrokeshire?

2. Contents
Abstract ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 1
Chapter 1
1.1 Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2-5
1.2 Methodology ….……………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-8
1.3 Questionnaire …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 9
Chapter 2 - The Age of Renewables
2.1 Sustainability .…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10
2.2 Fuel Depletion ..………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11
2.3 Pollutant Emissions & Environmental Impact .……….…………………………………… 11-12
2.4 Renewable Energy ……………………………………………………………………………………… 12-13
2.5 Renewable Energy in the UK ……………………………………………………………………….13-17
2.6 Wind Energy in the UK ………………………………………………………………………………. 17-18
Chapter 3 - A Welsh Dimension
3.1 The Welsh Government & Renewables …………………………………………………………… 19
3.2 Energy for Wales: A Low Carbon Transition ………………………………………………… 19-
21
3.3 Wind Energy in Wales ……………………………………………………………….………………. 21-22
Chapter 4 – A close look at the possible reasons for a negative attitudes towards
wind turbines
4.1 Noise Annoyance ………………………………………………………………………..……………… 23-
27
4.2 Disruption of Wildlife ………………………………………………………………………………... 27-29
4.3 Visual Impact …………………………………………………………………………………..………… 29-31
4.4 Not Cost-effective …………………………………………………………………………….……….. 31-33
4.5 Conclusion ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 34- 36
Bibliography ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 37- 39
Appendix ……………….……………………………………………………………………………………………… 40

3. Abstract
___________________________________________________________
Sustainability as a way of thinking is something which has risen to prominence in
recent times. Renewable energy is something which is closely associated with
sustainability, a number of different factors have contributed to an increased need
for the implementation of renewable energy technologies. Currently wind energy is
leading the way when compared to its renewable energy counterparts such as hydro
and solar power. However, wind energy receives a great deal of opposition and there
are a number of reasons as why this might be. The aim of this investigation is to
evaluate the reasons behind people’s negative perceptions towards wind turbines
and to see whether these reasons are justifiable. The reasons which this particular
investigation examines includes whether wind turbines cause noise annoyance, have
a visual impact upon the landscape, disrupt local wildlife and as to whether people
deem such a technology cost-effective. The findings suggest that out of the given
impacts some are viewed as a greater concern than others for example both noise
annoyance and the visual impact wind turbines have upon a landscape can be
considered as the major reason as to why so many people oppose wind energy as an
alternative energy source. There are however, a number of ways in which these
impacts can be minimised in the case of noise annoyance both the mechanical noise
and aerodynamic noise can be reduced during the design phase of the turbines.
Locating the wind turbines away from residential can also reduce the effects of noise
annoyance. Choosing suitable sites for wind farms can also reduce the impact they
have on wildlife and in particular bird populations, as sites should be located away
from bird sensitive areas.
1

4. Chapter 1
_____________________________________________________________________
1.1 Introduction
The transference away from using Fossil fuels is something which is becoming of
increasing significance; fossil fuels are finite resources and will inevitably run out.
The movement towards using renewable energy will help to decrease the reliance on
fossil fuels which currently is the primary form of energy production, this is poses a
number of problems for the future; one of in particular is the affect that they have
on the environment, not only when extracting the fossil fuels but also when we burn
them as a fuel source, this leads on to the threat which climate change can
potentially pose to future generations. The UK for example has plentiful supply of
various clean energies sourced from Wind, Waves and tides. This shift can be seen as
being integral if there is to be a reduction in the reliance on using fossil fuels and this
in turn will also decrease the impacts of climate change.
Welsh government has a significant role to play in the shift to renewables, Wales
having once been the predominant stakeholder in carbon based energy. The
government is now looking to emulate this by doing the same with low carbon
energy. The governments more recent ‘Energy Wales: A low carbon transition’ is a
great indication that Wales is prepared to take steps to insure its transition takes
place sooner rather than later, in order to secure Wales’ long term energy future.
Currently Wales’ renewable energy production comes primarily from sources such as
2

5. wind and Solar; this is a statistic which the Welsh government is looking to increase
considerably in the future. The first ministers insistence on being at the forefront
clean energy production one form which the welsh government is eager to explore,
is the possibility of harnessing the energy from the sea, the Severn estuary is a
particular point of interest with the development of the Severn barrage being
something which the Welsh government is considering, however this would pose a
number of challenges not only financially but environmental as well, (Welsh
Government, (2013).
Greater emphasis is being placed on small-scale renewable schemes by the Welsh
government, this means that small-scale renewable and low carbon energy
equipment, and this includes things such as:
• Solar panels for Walls/Roof
• Standalone Wind Turbines
• Flues
• Water/Air Heat Pumps
By ensuring that renewable technologies are being developed on a domestic front,
this helps facilitate the progression of renewable energy in Wales and it also helps
the Welsh government fulfil its goals which were established in ‘Energy Wales: A low
Carbon transition’.
3

6. One form of energy in particular is that of onshore wind. This type of renewable
energy is something which gathered a lot of momentum in recent times. Wind
energy now contributes the largest share of renewable energy in the UK, this is
because of the UK’s high capacity to support onshore wind, (Renewable Energy,
(2013). Despite the demand for the use of alternative energy forms, wind energy is
something which creates a great deal of conflict, with people opposing wind farm
developments especially in rural areas. With there being both positive and negative
environmental impacts, this will have a bearing on the scale of its future
implementation, as there will need to be greater focus on enhancing the exposure of
the positives whilst minimizing the negatives of wind turbine developments. The
government’s policy for renewable energy is something which has a significant
influence on onshore wind turbine developments, with the government’s insistence
on increasing Wales’s renewable energy contribution.
Despite wind energy being an obvious energy alternative there is still great conflict
surrounding it, there are a number of different reasons for the consumers reluctance
to accept it as a viable source of energy. This is something which not only applies to
wind energy but renewable energy as a whole, (Sardianou et al, (2013). There are
various reasons as to why people are apprehensive towards wind turbine
developments; whether it be because of Noise pollution, disruption of wildlife, visual
impact, whether it is cost effective and if they are causing the countryside to become
despoilt.
4

7. The objective of the investigation is to determine the reasons as to why there is such
a negative perception towards wind farms in rural Pembrokeshire. This is something
which has previously had relatively little study (Knopper et al,(2011) and a study such
as this one would be integral in evaluating the specific causes behind peoples
pessimistic viewpoints, and in doing so would ensure the future development and
construction of wind farms in Wales if these issues were to be addressed.
5

8. 1.2 Methodology
As part of the investigation a survey will be conducted in Narberth, which is situated
in rural Pembrokeshire.
Questionnaires will be the primary source of data collection, as it is a widely
accepted research instrument. However in order yield a high return rate of valid data
which can be used in the investigation the questionnaire needs to be carefully
planned and designed.
There are a number of positives to using a questionnaire as a research instrument, it
allows for the target audience to be clearly identified also because it is quantitative
data it is relatively straightforward when analysing the data, because questionnaires
tend to consist of primarily closed questions and in this instance implementing a
scale indicating their degree of agreement or disagreement with a statement it also
assures that it is made clear what is being asked of the respondents.
There are however a number of disadvantages to using questionnaires, this is
dependent on the respondent whether they have adequate literacy skills to
understand what is being asked of them, a visual impairment or if they are non-
English speakers all of these variables can determine the success of a questionnaire.
As is the case with this particular questionnaire there is little opportunity for the
respondent to present their perspective on the issues being discussed because of the
lack of open questions, however in this instance closed questions provide greater
6

9. assistance in identifying the causes for peoples negative perceptions towards wind
turbines because it allows for straightforward data interpretation, (Marshall, G
(2005).
The questionnaires will be distributed in the rural market town of Narberth, this can
be seen as an ideal location because it is considered as a hub for many of the
neighbouring towns and villages and will allow for greater scope with regards to
peoples responses.
The research will be quantitative, taking a close look at the various views and
opinions given by the population, a large sample will be used, which will consist of
random respondent house owners and pedestrians, this will allow for a wider range
of results, the questionnaire will include both open and closed questions aimed at
identifying the reasons behind such a negative perception, a number of key reasons
have been identified as to why people do not approve of wind farm developments
these include:
• Noise Annoyance,
• Disruption of Wildlife,
• Visual Impact and
• Not cost-effective
The information gathered from the questionnaires will assist in evaluating each of
these factors and to see whether any of them are a real cause for concern. The
7

10. primary data will be supplemented with a number of secondary sources in order to
come to a conclusion on why there is such a negative perception towards wind
turbines and whether it is warranted.
8

11. 1.3 Questionnaire
Reasons for such a Negative perception towards Wind farms in rural
Pembrokeshire?
The purpose of this questionnaire is to see what the general perception towards Wind farm
developments in Pembrokeshire. If you could take the time to complete the questionnaire it
would be much appreciated. The information gathered will only be used as part of my
undergraduate Geography Dissertation.
__________________________________________________________
1. Do you agree with the current Government policy on Wind Turbines?
Please circle the correct box
Agree Unsure Disagree Not sure what
it is
2. Has there been any Wind Turbine developments in your area? Yes No
3. Do you think the government should look at other alternatives energy sources
instead of relying so heavily on Wind energy? Yes No
4. Do you agree with the construction of Wind Turbines? Yes No
If Yes, thank you for taking time to answer my questionnaire, if not please continue
to questions 5 and 6
5. If No please rate on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being of least concern and 10 being
most concern the reasons as to why you do not agree with there development:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Noise
Annoyance
Disruption
of Wildlife
Visual
Impact
Not Cost-
effective
6. Any other comments?
9

12. Chapter 2 – The Age of Renewables
___________________________________________________________
2.1 Sustainability
Sustainability is a concept which was identified as a means of reducing the ever
increasing gap between development and the environment. The term sustainable
development received a great deal of impetus and rose to prominence following the
report in 1987 from the World Commission on Environment and Development
(WCED), this report which is often referred to as the Brundtland report defined
‘Sustainable development’ and development which ‘meets the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’,
(World Commission on Environment and Development (1987).Further awareness on
the issue of sustainability was raised in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro
(the UN Conference on Environment and Development) this compounded what was
established in the Brundtland report and built on these foundations. It recognised
that the concept of sustainable development needed to embedded within new
strategies and that a balance between economic and social development with
environmental protection was essential to this, (Rogers, P et al (2008). As a result of
this government bodies around the world have been encouraged to conserve
depleting fuel resources and to stimulate the development and use of renewable
energy sources, (Hammond, G (1997).
10

13. 2.2 Fuel Depletion
Hammond, G (2000) stated that ‘Energy systems pervade industrial societies and
weave a complex web of interactions that affect the daily lives of citizens’, the
continued dependency on fossil fuels has raised a number of questions over the
need to improve the efficiency of resource use, because if ignored could create a
number of problems in the future; this especially could prove problematic in
developed countries, with them using energy in vast quantities and at a rapid rate
for both domestic and industrial demands, (Bell, A (1995). Fossil fuels are a finite
resource; they include coal, crude oil and natural gas, they have formed the basis of
our energy production for many years. The combustion of finite reserves of fossil
fuels makes them increasingly susceptible to depletion. Oil has around 20-40 years of
life, Natural Gas has 40-70 years of life and Coal has the longest lifetime based on
current consumption rates with 80-240 years of life, these figures despite being
rough estimates highlight the insecurity of fossil fuel supplies, and the need to adapt
our current energy production methods in order to prolong its usage, this can be
achieved by transitioning to a more renewable based approach (Hammond, G
(1997).
2.3 Pollutant Emissions and Environmental Impact
As a result of the combustion of fossil fuels there are a number of pollutants which
can have a damaging effect on human health and the environment, examples include
smog caused by traffic emissions in urban areas, the formation of acid rain from the
pollutant emissions from fossil fuel based power stations and the potential for
11

14. increased greenhouse effect from combustion produced pollutants, (Hammond, G
(2000).The environmental concern which has received the most attention is global
warming; this is as a consequence of the combustion of fossil fuels (70-75% of all
CO2 emissions),and the emission of green house gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2)
and nitrous oxide (NO), the high concentrations of CO2,which are mainly of man-
made origin, in the atmosphere can be seen as the driving force of global warming,
(Nel et al (2009). As a consequence of Global warming, temperatures worldwide are
increasing, this comes with its own implications, and one in particular is the melting
of glaciers and sea ice this can cause further problems with it having a knock on
effect to sea levels, within them predicted to rise to between 7 and 23 inches in the
next century. There is likely to be increased precipitation in some areas, with floods
becoming more common also in contrast some areas will experience more droughts.
It will also influence significant change within ecosystems, with species that depend
on one another becoming out sync, (Solomon, S (2007). However, these outcomes
can be reduced if we were to adapt our energy usage and reduce the amount of
greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.
2.4 Renewable Energy
With a more sustainable approach to energy production being adopted by many
governmental bodies, renewable is something which rose to prominence. This
transition to more renewable sources of energy came as a reaction to the Kyoto
Protocol which was signed in 1997 by 192 countries with the UK being one of the
parties who signed the agreement. It committed industrialized countries to reduce
12

15. emissions of greenhouse gases, (Roger, P et al (2008).The UK for example will have
to reduce carbon emissions to 20% of their 1990 value by 2050, (P. Allen et al,
(2014).
Twidell et al (1986) defines renewable energy as ‘energy obtained from the
continuous or repetitive currents of energy recurring the natural environment’ or it
is defined as ‘energy flows which are replenished at the same rate as they are used’,
(Sorensen, B (2000). Both Twidell et al (1986) and Sorensen, B (2000) talk about the
various different types of renewable energy and how these can be utilised in order
to ease the transition away from fossil fuel dependency. The different types of
renewable energy include:
• Wind Power
• Solar Energy
• Hydro Power
• Bio Energy
• Geothermal Energy
2.5 Renewable Energy in the UK
Brennand, T (2011) talks about how the UK in particular has a solid foundation, to
which it can harness its renewable energy potential; it can achieve this through a
13

16. combination of renewable technologies with the most viable options being wind
energy and biomass this will in turn will increase the UK’s capacity for renewable
energy. The UK government has a significant role to play in the transition to more
renewable methods of energy production. The UK government have produced a
number of strategies and policies in order to facilitate the transition to renewable
energy sources; one strategy in particular is the UK Renewable Strategy
(Department of Energy & Climate Change (2009),this outlines the government’s
intentions of how they are going to achieve their goal of having 15% of energy
production coming solely from renewable energy sources by 2020, this sort of
government action will create further impetus to the topic, and in turn act as a driver
for progress. The government provides support to renewable energy market; this
can come in a number of forms whether it is financial, institutional or educational.
Financially the government provides support through subsidies, grants or feed in
tariffs; these schemes are mainly in place to promote small-scale renewable energy
industries, (White et al (2013).
However, White et al (2013) voiced his concerns on the difficulties of implementing
successful Renewable energy policy at all levels of governance. He believes that the
government should have a proactive approach, private companies respond primarily
to financial gains, whereas a fundamental aspect of governance is the importance of
social welfare. There are a number of linkages between social welfare and energy
these include energy supply, energy affordability, energy security and sustainability.
14

17. White et al (2013) believes that a wide range of goals set by governments can affect
the consistency of their policies.
Brennand, T (2004) discusses the difficulties that the renewable energy development
faces at the planning phase. Localities in the UK are in opposition to a number of
renewable energy developments. Such disapproval is in response to them wanting to
defend their amenity, with many local populous placing great value on the
landscape, this is coupled with the value of many houses specifically in rural areas;
Wind turbines in particular have been accused of having a damaging affect on the
countryside not only environmentally but visually as well. This draws on the idea of
reactive ruralism which was examined by Michael Woods (2003), reactive ruralism is
the mobilisation of a rural population to protect the landscape from having
something imposed upon it, and in this case it is renewable energy developments.
Connor, P (2003) also talks about the countries capacity for renewable energy with a
wealth of renewable resources, and it having optimal conditions for renewable
energy in Europe. It has the some of the best wind resources when compared to
other European nations, in particular in Scotland, in addition to this the UK’s long
coastline presents an idea opportunity for the development of wave and tidal
technology, there is also the possibility for the exploitation of biomass.
He goes onto talk about energy policy in the UK and how it originated. The platform
to which all current energy policy in the UK was established in Energy paper 55,
15

18. which was called renewable energy in the UK: The way forward, and was published
by the department of energy in the UK, its aims included:
• To stimulate economic exploitation of alternative energy resources in the UK;
• Establish and develop options for the future;
The ideas put forward in this paper were further sustained in Energy paper 60
(Renewable Energy Advisory Group: Report to the President of the Board of Trade),
and were advanced further in Energy paper 62 (New and Renewable Energy: Future
prospects for the UK). In 2002 the Renewable Obligation was introduced, prime
objective was to stimulate the generation of electricity from renewable sources; it
places an obligation on energy suppliers to produce some of their electricity from
renewable energy sources. The Renewable Obligation made some change to the
original aims laid out in previous policy these changes included:
• Assist in the reduction of emissions including greenhouse gases in order to
meet national and international targets;
• To create sustainable, diverse and competitive energy supplies;
• Help to make UK renewable industry to become competitive and to provide
employment and to assist with rural development.
Woodman, B (2011) however, talks about some of the failing of the Renewable
Obligation, as it was heavily criticised for its lack of effectiveness as an instrument to
16

19. encourage the implementation of renewable energy. Despite its failings it is still used
as a mechanism in aiding with renewable energy in the UK.
2.6 Wind Energy in the UK
There a great amount of potential for wind energy in the UK, whether it be on-shore
or offshore, (Boyle, G (2012). With Scotland in particular possessing the highest
percentage of wind energy resources, offering up development possibilities for the
onshore wind energy industry. Wind energy resources can contribute significant
amounts to the UK government’s efforts in transitioning to renewable forms of
energy production, (UK onshore wind (2001). Currently Wind energy in the UK
contributes the largest share of renewable energy, (Renewable UK (2013). Wind
energy is also the cheapest energy alternative available, Rajgnor, G (2010) in an
interview with the chief executive of the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA)
Christopher Kjaer he stated that “onshore will be the most affordable option for
most countries”.
There is also the case of offshore wind energy, which can be seen as a credible
energy source and account for a large proportion of renewable energy production.
The UK for example was lacking in comparison to some of its neighbouring countries
in terms of implementing wind energy on onshore and offshore. Offshore
development generally costs more than onshore installations. However despite the
higher cost, offshore wind speeds are generally higher and it is more practical to
utilize large scale wind turbines than on land, this is increases the economic viability
17

20. as more energy is able to be captured from one turbine, (Boyle, G (2012). The UK in
recent times has seen the emergence in implementing wind energy capacity at sea it
achieved this implementing it in phases. A pilot scheme was first used in 2000 and
since has seen been followed by a number of developments, many of which have
been completed, (Jay, S (2011).
Despite wind energy being a viable alternative energy source within the UK, with the
UK’s vast capacity potential. There is still a great deal of apprehension surrounding
the development of wind energy technologies, whether they are onshore or
offshore. There are a number of reasons for the consumers reluctance in terms of
there feasibility as an alternative energy source, this is something which not only
applies to wind energy but renewable energy sources as a whole, (Sardianou et al
(2013).
18

21. Chapter 3 – A Welsh Dimension
___________________________________________________________________
3.1 The Welsh Government and Renewables
The implementation of renewable energy technologies in Wales is the focus of the
Welsh Government, as they can be said to play an important role in the shift to
renewables. Wales was once an influential stakeholder in the carbon based energy
industry and now looks to replicate this by doing the same with low carbon energy.
‘Energy Wales: A low carbon transition’ one of the more recent policies to be
produced by the welsh government is suggestive of the direction that the Wales is
taking in order to insure the transition to renewable energy takes place sooner
rather than later, and to safeguard Wales’s long term energy future. At present
Wales’ renewable energy sources are primarily made up of solar and wind; the
Welsh Government is looking to build upon this by increasing the amount of energy
produced by solar and wind, and also expanding to use other forms of renewable
energy. (Welsh Government (2013).
3.2 Energy for Wales: A Low Carbon Transition
The First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, states that ‘Energy is a defining issue of
our generation’ (Energy for Wales: A Low Carbon Transition (2012) p5),this is
something which has received universal recognition, with increased awareness on an
international scale. The Welsh Government policy makers have outlined the course
of action necessary for Wales as a nation to progress and achieve its goals of
becoming an influential figure in terms of low carbon energy production. Energy for
Wales: A Low Carbon Transition identifies the importance of energy, with it
19

22. underpinning the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of people and
communities in not only Wales but globally.
Wales contributes only 9% in terms of electricity generation in the UK this is a
relatively small amount, with the majority of electricity generation in Wales coming
from Gas, whereas in the past it was sourced mainly from coal, this is because of the
wealth of coal resources available in Wales. There has been some growth in the
renewable energy generation from 2.9% in 2004 to 5.1% in 2010 this steady rise is
likely to continue into the future with the more investment from the Welsh
Government. Wales has a wealth of resources which include a wide range of energy
sources, significant wind resources, with a large capacity for both onshore and
offshore, this coupled with significant wave and tidal energy potential could prove
important in the Welsh Governments efforts in transitioning to a low carbon
economy. In addition to this there is also the prospect of increased implementation
of solar resources, by diversifying energy generation methods and using cleaner
energy sources it will aid in transitioning away from carbon based energy generation,
(Energy for Wales: A Low Carbon Transition (2012) p9).
With the various types of energy sources beginning to come to the forefront of the
energy market in Wales, there is significant potential for new jobs to be created, it is
predicted by 2020 there will be over 250,000 new jobs created within the energy in
sector in the UK, (Energy for Wales: A Low Carbon Transition (2012) p6). The Welsh
Governments intends to improve Wales’ energy output without hindering the
20

23. countries economy and instead seeks to provide economic benefits through the
creation of jobs, supporting and engaging with businesses who advocate the
governments ambition of facilitating a low carbon transition and also show support
to the most vulnerable within welsh society who may suffer as a result of the
reformation of the energy market. In terms of employment Simas and Pacca (2014)
have stated that there can be some link between renewable energy technologies and
employment rates, this is something which would prove beneficial in Wales with its
wealth of renewable energy sources, whether they be direct jobs which include the
construction, operation and management, or indirect jobs in the supply of materials
used to construct the various renewable energy technologies.
The Energy for Wales’s policy does not only present opportunities from an economic
standpoint but social and environmental as well. The premise of the policy is not
only to establish a framework for the present but also looking to taking action that
will benefit in the long term.
3.3 Wind Energy in Wales
Wind energy, including both onshore and offshore can make a substantial
contribution to the renewable energy targets which the Welsh Government have set
out to achieve. The welsh countryside can be said to offer optimal conditions for the
development of onshore wind energy, however all wind developments must be
situated in Strategic Search Areas (SSAs), these are identified in through a number of
different ways. Strategic Search Areas don’t necessarily need to be located in areas
21

24. which demonstrate a degree of suitability in both economic and environmental
terms. Areas which display the required characteristics can be deemed Strategic
Search Areas for example upland areas, places that are sparsely populated in order
to avoid any conflict, open and extensive areas which have a relatively good wind
resource. As part of the Technical Advice Note 8, onshore wind developments must
be concentrated in Strategic Search Areas, however there is now some potential for
the wind power developments within urban areas more specifically in brownfield
sites, (Technical Advice Note 8: Planning for Renewable Energy (2005) p5-7). Despite
Wales offering some of the best conditions to support wind power developments
there is still a great deal of apprehension surrounding the subject.
An example of a Wind power development in the welsh countryside is Mynydd
Llansadwrn, it received a great deal of opposition from the local communities who
formed the Mynydd Llansadwrn action group in response. The area was under threat
from the development of a number wind turbines during 2003. A proposal was put
forward to Carmarthenshire county council, outlining the plans to erect three 91
metre high wind turbines, however a planning application was not submitted. As
part of the construction it would require 15 foot wide access roads to the site, in
order to carry the heavy equipment and machinery. They would also need to drill
into the bedrock to a considerable depth in order to build huge concrete pads to
support the turbines. The construction of these wind turbines would be a major
project, and even during the construction process would have considerable effect on
the surrounding environment, (Mynydd Llansadwrn Action Group (2003).
22

25. Chapter 4 – A close look at the possible reasons for a negative
perceptions towards Wind Turbine
____________________________________________________________________
Wind Energy is something which can be considered to have both positive and
negative environmental impacts. The negative impacts can be said to be the main
reason behind the generation of such widespread opposition to wind energy
developments. Careful management of both the positive and negative impacts will
be in integral to the future implementation of wind energy on a larger scale, (Boyle,
G (2012).
4.1 Noise Annoyance
Wind turbines are often presented as being incredibly noisy or as being a nuisance to
people who live in close proximity, this can be considered as one of the main issues
with regards to the widespread negativity to which wind energy developments
receive.
However, it is not clear as to whether considering noise as a negative impact is
justified.
Noise which is generated by wind turbines can be separated into two different types,
(Saidur et al (2011):
• Mechanical noise
• Aerodynamic noise
Mechanical noise for example is a result of the components within the wind turbine
moving such as the electrical generator, gear box and bearings. This type of noise
23

26. can also originate from poor maintenance of the wind turbine. In contrast
aerodynamic noise is not caused by the components of the wind turbines but by the
flow of air through the blades of a turbine, this tends to become more prominent
when the speed of the turbines increases. However despite these being the root
cause of much of the noise generated by wind turbines there are a number of way in
which both mechanical and aerodynamic noise can be minimised. For instance,
mechanical noise can be reduced when designing the turbines, or through acoustic
insulation of the interior of the turbine. There are also way in which aerodynamic
noise can be decreased this is generally done during the design phase, more
specifically looking at the blades of the wind turbines, (Oerlemans et al (2007).
At present wind turbines tend to be much quieter when compared their
predecessors, adhering to the noise imission requirements. Noise imission is a
measurement of the cumulative noise energy that a person may be exposed to over
a period of time. It equates to the average noise level (db) which someone has been
exposed to, plus ten times the logarithm (log10) of the number of years to which a
person has experienced it, (Boyle, G (2012).
In the UK wind turbine noise levels must follow the guidelines currently in place, for
example noise limits for medium and large sized wind turbine, should be relative to
any background noise with varying limits for both day time (35-40 db) and night time
(43 db). The Noise limit during the day is dependent on a number of different
factors, for instance the limit can be determined when looking at the number of
24

27. buildings in the surrounding area, and by the time and level to which individuals may
be exposed. Small sized wind turbines differ from their larger counterparts are
allowed a slightly higher noise limit of 45 db.
A wind turbine at a distance of 350 metres carries a noise level of 34-35 decibels
(db), a car for example has a much higher noise level with an average noise level
between 80-89 decibels (Boyle, G (2012), this is considerably higher than the noise
level of a wind turbine and it is something which people come into regular contact
with. Cars unlike wind turbines receive very little opposition from the public, this
could also be due to their visibility and are considered by many to be an unnecessary
imposition on the landscape, and this could in turn influence people’s negative
attitudes towards wind turbines. Pedersen et al (2010) discussed the possibility of
altering the parameters for assessing where wind turbines should be located, and
instead to look at areas that already experience significant noise exposure as it could
be used to then mask out the sound produced by the wind turbines, for example
areas which are exposed to considerable road traffic noise. It was concluded from
the investigation that road traffic noise did reduce the prevalence of annoyance that
the noise from the wind turbines caused. This should be brought into consideration
during the planning phase of such wind energy developments, it could be beneficial
for future development proposals, because of the reduced noise annoyance from
wind turbines, it may as a result alter people’s perceptions towards them. However,
with the increased implementation of wind turbines noise annoyance could become
an even bigger problem, as suitable locations are increasingly more difficult to find
25

28. and could see more wind energy developments in more populated areas, (Van
Renterghem et al (2013).
A close look at people's views on wind turbine developments in Narberth,
Pemrokeshire
26
4
13
17
15 15
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
Yes No
No.ofrespondentswhoanswered
eitherYesorNo
Have there been any Wind Turbine
developments in your area?
Do you think the government
should look at other alternative
energy sources instead of relying
so heavily on Wind energy?
Do you agree with the construction
of Wind Turbines?
Figure 1 – Primary data, collected 5th
January 2014: A look at people’s views on wind turbine
developments in and around the area of Narberth, Pembrokeshire.
As can be seen in figure 1 most of the respondents were aware of any wind turbine
developments in the area, and also the vast majority of people believed wind energy
was the most viable of the various energy sources, however 50% of respondents did
not agree with the construction of wind turbines.
Noise Annoyance as a reason for people's negative attitudes
towards wind turbines
3
8
4
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Noise Annoyance
No,ofrespondentswhoratednoise
pollutionbetween1-10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Figure 2 – Primary data, collected 5th
January 2014: A look at Noise Pollution as a reason for people
negative attitudes towards Wind Turbines.
26

29. Figure 2 suggests that the vast majority of the 15 respondents who do not agree with
the construction of wind turbines believe that the noise produced by wind turbines is
of particular concern. This can be considered a universal viewpoint of the many
people who live in the vicinity of any wind turbine developments, and could be
regarded as one of the key reasons for people’s negative feeling towards them.
4.2 Disruption of Wildlife
The effect that wind turbines have on wildlife can also be brought into question
when examining the reason behind people’s negative perception towards wind
turbines.
Disruption of Wildlife as a reason for peoples negative attitudes towards
wind turbines
2
5
2
6
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Disruption of Wildlife
No.ofrespondentswhorated
disruptionofwildlifebetween1-10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Figure 3 – Primary data collected 5th
January 2014: A look at the effects that wind turbines have on
wildlife.
As can be seen in figure 3 the majority of the respondents did not feel that wind
turbines have had that much of an effect on the wildlife. In contrast to the views
held by the respondents a number of studies indicate otherwise, that wind turbines
do in fact have a significant effect on a number of different species of wildlife.
27

30. For instance, Tabassum-Abbassi et al (2014) talks about turbine-induced wildlife
mortality, paying particular attention to both birds and bats. There is a significant
variation in the number of turbine-killed birds and bats, this is dependent on where
the turbines are located and also takes into consideration a number of different
factors which include:
• Weather conditions,
• Topography,
• Location, and
• Size of the wind turbines
For example when there are adverse weather conditions the likelihood of a collision
with a wind turbine is drastically increased; poor visibility may come about as a
result of either rain or fog, also strong winds may also impact both a birds and bats
ability to fly thus increasing collision rates, (Tabassum- Abbassi et al (2014).
The increased implementation of wind turbines has had a consequential effect on
the local population level of raptors, which are also known as birds of prey, this term
includes various species of birds. In terms of vulnerability raptors are at high risk, this
is as a result of the displacement from their habitats and because of the growing
number of fatalities from the collisions with the wind turbines themselves.
Bellebaum et al (2013) discusses the affects that wind turbines can have on raptors,
and in particular one species of raptor, Red Kites. Red Kites have experienced a
28

31. recent population decline, this whilst not necessarily being as a result of increased
implementation of wind turbines it can be considered as partly responsible for the
additional mortality of the Red Kite population. However, despite wind turbines
having some effect on the Red Kite population, there are other human induced
reasons for increased mortality rates.
Whilst there are concerns that a considerable increase in wind turbine developments
could have a negative effect on bird populations. Nevertheless, there are ways in
which this can be prevented, developers when assessing the suitability and
designating a site for future wind turbines proposals, they need to take into account
the bird sensitivity of these areas, (Boyle, G (2012).
4.3 Visual Impact
The Visual Impact of wind turbines as a reason for people
negative perceptions towards them
3
2 2
8
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Visual impact
No.ofrespondentwhoratedvisual
impactbetween1-10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Figure 4 – Primary data collected 5th
January 2014: A look at the effect that the visual impact of wind
turbines has on people’s perceptions.
29

32. It is evident from figure 4 that much like noise annoyance the visual impact which
wind turbines have on a landscape is one of the main factors behind the public
resistance against them, (Tsoutsos et al (2009) with more than 50% of the
respondents rating it eight out ten in terms of it being of most concern.
The visual impact of wind turbines is regarded as subjective topic, in the sense that it
is very much dependent on the person, and a number of variables may influence a
person’s view. For example the impacts that wind turbines have on the aesthetic of
the landscape; this includes a number of variables such as its colour, size and
fractality. This draws on the work done by Sibille et al (2009) which considers the
wind turbines poor aesthetic integration into the landscape; it could be regarded as
an alien feature because of its artificial appearance and because most wind turbines
which are located in rural areas tend to be over one hundred metres tall.
The idea that landscape is an important asset for every individual, not only from a
naturalistic standpoint but it is also important in terms of social and economic
domains; this plays a fundamental role in why there is such widespread public
opposition. Wind turbines have to be located in areas which are able to exploit the
wind conditions in order to produce large quantities of energy; these sites tend to be
very visible either on summits or in vast open areas. Many consider them to be an
unnecessary imposition upon the landscape impacting the natural beauty of an area
this is particularly apparent in rural areas it also can create tension if they are located
near popular tourist destinations, (Katsaprakakis, D (2012). However, people’s
30

33. perceptions towards them varies depending upon the size, the number of turbines in
a wind farm and the way the turbines have been positioned, (Sibille et al (2009).
When discussing the visual impacts of wind turbines, the effect of shadow flicker
must also be considered. This is only tends to happen at certain times of year, it is
caused by the interaction of the sunlight with the rotating blades from the wind
turbines, this casts moving shadows over the surrounding area. When there are wind
farms located near residential areas, shadow flicker can become a serious problem.
However, the effects that shadow flicker caused by wind turbines can be avoided
through careful planning when locating them, if they are positioned 500 metres
away from any settlements the effects of shadow flicker are likely to be less,
(Katsaprakakis, D (2012).
4.4 Not Cost-Effective
There is also the debate over the cost-effectiveness of wind turbines. When looking
at the economics of wind energy a number of different factors need to be taken into
account, these include:
• Annual energy production from wind turbines
• Cost of installation
• Maintenance costs
• Length of the contract with the purchaser of the electricity produced
31

34. The cost-effectiveness of wind turbines as a reason for peoples negative
perceptions
7
1
5
1 1
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Not Cost-effective
No.ofpeoplewhoratedcost-
effectivenessbetween1-10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Figure 5 – Primary data collected 5th
January 2014: A look at the cost-effectiveness as a reason for
people’s negative perceptions towards wind turbines.
It is evident from figure 5 that respondents felt that the cost effectiveness was of
least concern, with over 90% scoring it below 4. Wind turbines are not always able to
function at full capacity, this is known as the capacity factor which describes the
output of the of a wind turbine over a period of time, this is because there is not a
constant full rated wind speed through out the year. A wind turbines capacity factor
is dependent on where it is located, when the wind speed is higher the capacity
factor is also likely to be higher, for example large parts of Carmarthenshire offers
optimal conditions in terms of wind speed sites.
However, despite the general uncertainty on how much energy a wind turbine will
produce, they are relatively easy to install, and since the introduction of the
Renewable Obligation in 2002 by the UK government, (Connor, P (2003) wind energy
has become a more attractive renewable electricity source, because of the subsidies
on offer. Also when compared to other renewable energy sources such as hydro and
tidal power, wind energy is less capital-intensive and once installed, they are able to
produce electricity before there is any significant interest on the capital spent during
32

35. the construction phase of development. In this instance it can be considered that
wind turbines are cost effective, they offer a viable long term solution in terms of
energy production, in order to insure their viability there needs to be careful
planning when it comes to locating sites which provide the correct conditions in
order to insure a high capacity factor, (Boyle, G (2012).
33

36. 4.5 Conclusion
With the obvious need for increased implementation of renewable energy
technologies, from the various available clean energy sources, wind energy can be
considered a viable option in comparison to its renewable counterparts. However,
despite its practicality there is a great deal of pessimism surrounding the subject.
There are a number of different reasons which can be considered when discussing
people’s opposition towards wind turbine developments; these include noise
annoyance, whether they disturb wildlife, have a visual impact on the landscape and
whether wind turbines are cost-effective. It is not clear as to whether people’s
resistance against wind energy developments is warranted. There are a number of
positives and negative impacts when looking at wind turbines and it is a case of do
the negatives outweigh the positives. The various reasons influence people’s
negative views towards wind turbines to varying degrees, for example, noise
annoyance and visual impact can account for most of the negativity directed towards
wind turbines. However, despite these negative impacts there are ways in which
they can be counteracted, for example during the design and planning phases of new
wind energy developments. The noise generated by wind turbines is usually either
mechanical noise or aerodynamic noise, both of which can be minimised either
during the design phase of the wind turbine itself or by slowing the speed at which
the blades rotate. Also when choosing sites for development, the wind turbines can
be located away from residential areas or near areas which are already exposed to
significant noise levels, an example of this is areas near motorways where there are
considerable amounts of road traffic.
34

37. Also with regards to visual impact, with the most suitable locations for development
tending to be in open expanses of land, the visibility of the wind turbines is
something which is increasingly difficult to prevent. However the shadow flicker
which is created as a result of the interaction between the sunlight and the rotating
blades of wind turbines, this similarly to neutralising the effects of noise annoyance
can be prevented by locating the wind turbines away from residential areas so that
no shadow is cast upon houses in the vicinity.
The less influential reasons such as the disruption of wildlife, wind turbines do in
fact impact wildlife and in particular birds. The raptor populations and more
specifically the Red Kite population have suffered as a result of the increased
implementation of wind turbines. This again is something which can be solved with
relative simplicity, by assessing an areas bird sensitivity before implementing any
proposals for wind energy developments, thus allowing for the wind turbines to be
in located in areas where they will have little impact on local bird populations.
The cost-effectiveness of wind turbines is also something which can be brought into
question, whilst not necessarily an impact it does however act as a means for people
to criticize wind energy, because of the cost to install wind farms and the lack of
immediate benefits. However, they can be considered economically viable in the
long term because they are less capital intensive when compared to other renewable
energy sources. Wind energy is also able to attract greater investment because of
35

38. the financial benefits (subsidies) available to investors, because of the policies put in
place by the UK government such as the renewable obligation.
Furthermore, when looking at each possible reason behind peoples negative
attitudes, there is rarely a negative impact without a positive to accompany it. This
leads onto the question as to whether people negative attitudes are justified. It is
not necessarily as simple as saying people are right or wrong in what they believe,
because in this instance it can be considered subjective in the sense that peoples
viewpoints are influenced by different elements from the wind turbine
developments and some factors may be cause for annoyance more than others for
different people.
The negative impacts caused by wind turbine however is something which both the
UK Government and the Welsh Government must pay close attention to and make
attempts to rectify them in order to facilitate a compromise between both the
developers and those who are in opposition to wind energy development. This will
allow for wind energy to continue leading the way in the UK’s transference away
from carbon based energy production to cleaner methods of energy generation.
36

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42. Appendix
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40