May 23, 2007
Wisconsin
Wisconsin
Alternative energy could find a foothold in Trempealeau County, but not before clearing a few hurdles.
A company called AgWind wants to build a wind farm in Ettrick. The company says its long-term plans would include many areas in Trempealeau County. Eventually, turbines throughout the county could provide enough energy to power 35 to 50 thousand homes.
There is resistance to AgWind’s plans from people who could find themselves living directly below the windmills.
“It’s going to take the peace and tranquility away from us and it’s going to give us an industrial area to live in,” says Kenneth Critzman, a resident of Ettrick.
Research conducted by Trempealeau County suggests there could be health and psychological side effects from living in close proximity to the turbines.
“They do throw ice. There is shadow flicker that can adversely affect people’s health. From articles I have read, if you are prone to seizures, it can promote seizure activity,” explains Kevin Lien, Trempealeau County’s zoning director.
At a zoning meeting Tuesday night, the committee agreed on an ordinance that would limit the noise turbines would be allowed to emit, and also how close the turbines could be built to homes. The recommendation will appear before the county board on June 18th.
News 18
22 May 2007
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2007/05/23/wind-resistance-in-trempealeau-county/