National Wind Watch: Wind Energy News » Health effects of wind turbines questioned

The effects of wind turbines in Ontario have been questioned by many, including those near Perth County.

When Environment Minister and local MPP John Wilkinson speaks to Perth County council on Thursday it could be standing room only.

Wilkinson and Doris Dumais, director of environmental assessments and approvals for the Ministry of the Environment, will be making a presentation about wind turbines.

Industrial wind turbines have been a source of controversy both locally and provincewide.

Members of a recently formed group West and East Perth Against Turbines (WEPAT) will be out in force at Thursday’s council meeting.

“Most of our members will be attending in the public gallery,” said member Dean Trentowsky.

The group has no plans at the moment to approach council as a delegation. However, the group has approached both West Perth and Perth East councils in recent weeks.

“We’re asking councils to investigate to see what they can do to protect the public,” Trentowsky said.

WEPAT is concerned the turbines and low-frequency noise they emit cause health consequences like headaches, sleeplessness and heart palpitations.

Provincial regulations require wind turbines be placed at least 550 metres from anywhere people live, sleep, pray or go to school.

A lawsuit – brought forward by Prince Edward County’s Ian Hanna— challenging the setback distances wrapped up last week.

Hanna insists the province did not consult adequate medical sources to consider health consequences before determining the setback.

The court is still deliberating.

“We’re taking a wait and see approach to see what comes from it. It’s the first of its kind,” Trentowsky said of the lawsuit.

WEPAT will contemplate its next move once the results of the Hanna case are made public.