Stringent regulations needed on wind farms
The Gadsden Times | March 18, 2014 | www.gadsdentimes.com
The Gadsden Times | March 18, 2014 | www.gadsdentimes.com
In a few short days, Alabama legislators will have a chance to do something that will be greatly beneficial for the citizens of our state.
They will have the opportunity to pass stringent regulations for the possible installation of industrial wind facilities in our beautiful state.
Anyone familiar with the existing facilities in other states and countries knows all of the havoc that these installations inflict on the sanctity of nearby citizens, livestock, wildlife and property values.
Other states and countries are now reconsidering the issuance of permits for new facilities. Some are revoking existing permits.
As it currently stands, there are no regulations concerning setback of the property lines, height restrictions, sound levels and low frequency vibration and reclaim of road and right-of-way damage.
These restrictions are paramount to protecting our citizens and property.
Consider our wildlife: Eagles, protected and non-protected birds alike are being slaughtered in these facilities.
Alabama is considered a “no wind” state by all measures of science and is published as being so by our federal government agencies. Alabama Power Co. has invested in the resource, but in “Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweeping down the plain.”
Why did it not invest in Alabama? It takes wind. Alabama should know.
What about our state? Do you want to go to Gulf Shores and lie on the beach with wind turbines in the ocean in view of your sunset? Do you want to drive our beautiful valleys and see mountaintops covered in turbines?
Once they come here, there will be many others.
These units will be up to 570 feet tall on top of Lookout Mountain. An average skyscraper in New York City is 630 feet tall.
Who will disassemble them once they ceased to operate? Who will pay? Taxpayers?
Our legislators have very good sense. We must have stringent regulations.
This deals with more than just Etowah County. It covers the entire state.
Please call your legislator today.
Don F. Bradford
Gadsden
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/03/19/stringent-regulations-needed-on-wind-farms/