October 20, 2011
Australia

Wind turbines on hold

Matt Smith, www.themercury.com.au 21 October 2011

The controversial wind turbines on Hobart’s Marine Board building may not be spinning for another month, despite a grand unveiling of the new improved units three weeks ago.

On September 30 building owner Robert Rockefeller invited the media on to the roof of the waterfront building to view the new turbines in action. But since then the turbines have only been seen spinning a handful of times.

A spokesman for Mr Rockefeller confirmed yesterday the turbines may not be spinning for another month because of the installation of maintenance ladders.

The spokesman could not say why the ladders were not installed during the set up of the four new turbines in August.

Workplace Standards general manager Roy Ormerod said yesterday the safety watchdog was contacted by the turbine installers on October 3.

“After the announcement they sought more advice on some access maintenance ladders,” he said. “We suggested some improvements, which they have taken on board. They are currently completing their installation.”

The installation of the turbines was lambasted by Hobart City Council aldermen, who said they would visually spoil the iconic waterfront precinct.

The failure of two of the original turbines in July last year, causing $100,00 damage, prompted calls that they should be removed for safety reasons.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/10/20/wind-turbines-on-hold/