Lake County Illinois is considering a good strategy to help them move forward with wind power projects. The idea may help other areas that want to embrace wind projects but have been struggling with wind energy regulations. (more…)
By Timlynn Babitsky
Once again the battle lines are drawn. “Sure I support wind power but don’t put those turbines in my back yard.” At issue again is how close is close; how loud is turbine noise; and does history trump the future. The problem is, commercial wind power in this state could hang on the siting commission’s decision. (more…)
By Timlynn Babitsky
The first Vertical Axis Wind Turbine has gone live at the home of Tim Williams in San Diego County! This 3.4 kW Falcon turbine from WePOWER promises to be virtually free from vibration, noise, and maintenance. And, it’s safe for birds. (more…)
By Timlynn Babitsky
Do wind power farms, or even single wind energy turbines negatively impact the property values nearby? This controversial issue has people passionately lined up on both sides armed with anecdotal data and serious research results. The most often cited paper comes from a US study in 2003; it claims no negative impact. A second surely to be well cited study conducted in the UK in 2007 shows that property values near wind farms appeared to be negatively impacted. Wind project resistors will no doubt point to the UK study. Which is correct? (more…)
by Timlynn Babitsky
Suspicious shenanigans by wind developers in upstate New York have prompted the State’s Attorney General to develop a code of conduct for wind energy companies doing business in The Empire State. There is no question that wind power in New York State has the potential to make positive changes for many who live there, but the ends should never justify the means. And, Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, absolutely agrees. (more…)
By Timlynn Babitsky
The claim by wind power resistors that “infrasound” is a health problem for people living anywhere near modern wind turbines is not supported by facts. There is general agreement among acousticians that infrasound from wind turbines is not a problem. There is a turbine noise issue to which we do need to pay attention, but inaudible noise making your body parts vibrate is just not it. (more…)
by Timlynn Babitsky
The small wind turbine market is expected to grow by 18-20% through the next two years. When new tax incentives ($1,000 – $4,000 per system) go into effect in January ‘09, that growth will only accelerate. Between tax incentives, rising energy costs and increased environmental consciousness, residential and commercial scale wind turbine demand is already exploding. But until now, small wind systems have disappointed many. (more…)
by Timlynn Babitsky
Do wind generators really kill birds? If so, how serious is the problem? Mick Agrillo wrestles with this problem and does some real homework to put wind power’s effect on birds in perspective. (more…)
by Timlynn Babitsky
Wind turbine impact on avian populations is a hot issue in the wind power arena. But a recent study covered in the UK’s Telegraph states that farmland birds aren’t bothered by wind turbines being built in the countryside. Is the turbine-avian issue over? (more…)
by Timlynn Babitsky
Foregoing daily towel and sheet changes have given travelers a way to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Offsetting the carbon footprint of your hotel stay has gotten even greener. Here’s a MD hotel example. (more…)