July 20, 2016
Ireland

Sinn Fein TD introduces Bill to regulate wind turbines

Express Reporter | Leinster Express | 20 Jul 2016 | www.leinsterexpress.ie

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Brian Stanley TD has today (July 20) introduced a Bill to regulate wind turbines. the Wind Turbine Regulation Bill 2016.

Introducing the Wind Turbine Regulation Bill 2016, Deputy Stanley said that the measure would “regulate the development of wind turbines through providing limits on the exportation of product generated from wind turbines; protecting nearby dwellings from noise and shadow flicker by providing minimum set back distances and ensuring a public consultative process for any developments.

He noted that Sinn Féin supports the development of renewable energy.

“However, until now there has been little benefit for local communities from these developments. This Bill will seek to address this issue in a number of ways.

“Imposing proper regulation on all aspects of wind turbine developments, including proper zoning of areas for wind turbine developments, set-back distances and assigning responsibility for decommissioning wind turbines will address the concerns many people have around wind turbines in their locality.

“It will also ensure that any renewable energy produced in Ireland should be directed towards the reduction of the fuel bills many households find burdensome.

“To address this issue, the Bill seeks to ensure Ireland’s energy demands are met prior to renewable energy being exported.

“In order to encourage engagement between wind developers and communities, this Bill contains provisions for Co-Ownership for local communities.

“Local residents shall be provided with an opportunity to purchase a stake in any wind turbine development and be entitled to the payment of a dividend during the lifetime of the wind turbine development.

“This will guarantee that local communities will see a real benefit from renewable energy developments.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2016/07/20/sinn-fein-td-introduces-bill-to-regulate-wind-turbines/