February 17, 2015
Australia

Cape Bridgewater study sparks calls for more research into wind farm impacts on residents

ABC News | 18 February 2015 | www.abc.net.au

Independent Ballarat-based Senator John Madigan is calling for further research into the impact of wind farms on nearby residents.

Renewable energy company Pacific Hydro released a report last month that linked low-frequency noise to sensations reported by people living close to its Cape Bridgewater facility, outside Portland in south-west Victoria.

The company this week said it was closing residents’ complaints and would not be changing operations at Cape Bridgewater.

Senator Madigan said he was unhappy with by Pacific Hydro’s response but said responsibility for more research laid with government.

“Disappointed Pacific Hydro’s not going to take it further but you know the government – local state and federal governments – need to get off their rear end and get on and get the research done and let’s get in place something that protects people, protects the environment and protects the economy,” he said.

Senator Madigan said he was pleased the wind farm operator commissioned the research but a wider Commonwealth investigation was needed.

“The governments needs to commission this research, I believe the Federal Government. Just handballing issues to the state or to local government is not good enough,” he said.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2015/02/17/cape-bridgewater-study-sparks-calls-for-more-research-into-wind-farm-impacts-on-residents/