November 29, 2006
U.K.
U.K.
The company behind a windfarm bid on the outskirts of Stonehaven says it has addressed the issue of potential TV reception interference.
Renewable Energy Systems’ application for a windfarm at Meikle Carewe, near Netherley, was rejected five years ago – partly due to concerns over TV and radar interference.
Earlier this week, following RES’s revised application for a windfarm at the same site, a spokesman for the local community council said the loss of reception remained one of the major concerns for those living nearby.
Yesterday, a spokesman for RES said the change in layout, size and number of turbines ruled out the problem for most homes however.
The spokesman did admit that up to 40 houses could potentially experience a drop in picture quality, but this would be overcome, at the company’s expense, by installing new aerials or digital reception equipment, or re-tuning existing aerials towards the Angus transmitter.
He added: “Ofcom, the organisation responsible for maintaining broadcast television reception in the area, was consulted by RES prior to submission of the application and it did not raise any concerns.”
Visual impact, another major concern of locals, had also been addressed, he added, with the help of three-dimensional visualisation computer software.
Full details of the steps taken by the company are contained in an environmental statement which will be submitted shortly to Aberdeenshire Council, before being made available at public libraries and other council dictated locations.
RES is due to make a presentation to North Kincardine community council in December regarding the steps it has taken.
On Monday community council vice-chairman Robin Winmill said the latest proposal was similar in position and size to the last one.
Regarding the issue of TV reception, he said council members “remain to be convinced they have solved the problem despite their assurances”.
The latest application is for 12 turbines of 70 metres in height, with a total installed capacity of 10 megawatts and an anticipated useful life of 25 years.
By Andrew Hamilton
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2006/11/29/weve-sorted-tv-reception-problem-says-firm-in-windfarm-bid/