Highlights Initial construction of wind farm (WF) has great influence on biological resources. With the completion of WF construction, biological resources gradually recovered. Microplastics (MPs) were widespread in swimming organisms in WF construction area. The MPs hazard index was evaluated in the organisms before and after WF construction. Abstract Wind farms (WFs) have grown significantly in recent years, especially in the offshore. However, their construction can adversely affect marine life and expose species to microplastics (MPs) pollution, posing a threat . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-wind-farm-construction-on-swimming-animals-in-the-south-yellow-sea-an-evaluation-based-on-the-biodiversity-and-microplastics/
Effects of Continuous Acoustic Stress on ROS Levels and Antioxidant-Related Gene Expression in the Black Porgy (Acanthopagrus schlegelii) #JPN #TWN
Abstract Short-term exposure to strong underwater noise is known to seriously impact fish. However, the chronic physiological effects of continuous exposure to weak noise, i.e. the operation noise from offshore wind farms (OWF), remain unclear. Since more and more OWF will be built in the near future, their operation noise is an emerging ecological issue. To investigate the long-term physiological effects of such underwater noise on fish, black porgies (Acanthopagrus schlegelii) were exposed to two types of simulated wind farm . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/effects-of-continuous-acoustic-stress-on-ros-levels-and-antioxidant-related-gene-expression-in-the-black-porgy-acanthopagrus-schlegelii/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/effects-of-continuous-acoustic-stress-on-ros-levels-and-antioxidant-related-gene-expression-in-the-black-porgy-acanthopagrus-schlegelii/
Transcriptomic analysis reveals the immune response mechanisms of sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus under noise stress from offshore wind turbine #CHN
Highlights Characteristic assessment of noise at the Bodhi Island offshore wind farm Underwater noise suppresses protein synthesis and cellular apoptosis in sea cucumber intestines Underwater noise causes oxidative damage to the body cavity of sea cucumber Lysosomes and pancreatic secretion support sea cucumbers’ nutrient and energy needs in adverse conditions Sea cucumbers’ immune system responds more to low-frequency noise than high-frequency Abstract As an important form of renewable energy, offshore wind power can effectively reduce dependence on traditional energy sources . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/transcriptomic-analysis-reveals-the-immune-response-mechanisms-of-sea-cucumber-apostichopus-japonicus-under-noise-stress-from-offshore-wind-turbine/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/transcriptomic-analysis-reveals-the-immune-response-mechanisms-of-sea-cucumber-apostichopus-japonicus-under-noise-stress-from-offshore-wind-turbine/
Impact of wind farm construction on swimming animals in the South Yellow Sea: An evaluation based on the biodiversity and microplastics #CHN
Highlights Initial construction of wind farm (WF) has great influence on biological resources. With the completion of WF construction, biological resources gradually recovered. Microplastics (MPs) were widespread in swimming organisms in WF construction area. The MPs hazard index was evaluated in the organisms before and after WF construction. Abstract Wind farms (WFs) have grown significantly in recent years, especially in the offshore. However, their construction can adversely affect marine life and expose species to microplastics (MPs) pollution, posing a threat . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-wind-farm-construction-on-swimming-animals-in-the-south-yellow-sea-an-evaluation-based-on-the-biodiversity-and-microplastics/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-wind-farm-construction-on-swimming-animals-in-the-south-yellow-sea-an-evaluation-based-on-the-biodiversity-and-microplastics/
Transcriptomic analysis of the response mechanisms of black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) under noise stress from offshore wind farms #CHN
Highlights Extended exposure to noise could have implications for the immune system and cardiac health of black rockfish. The noise from offshore wind farms have adverse effects on the normal morphology of the sensory hair cells in black rockfish. Underwater noise causes metabolic disruption in black rockfish. Characteristic assessment of noise at the 5.2 MW single-pile foundation wind turbine in Shandong. Abstract During the operational phase of offshore wind farms, the generation of low-frequency underwater noise has received widespread attention due . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/transcriptomic-analysis-of-the-response-mechanisms-of-black-rockfish-sebastes-schlegelii-under-noise-stress-from-offshore-wind-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/transcriptomic-analysis-of-the-response-mechanisms-of-black-rockfish-sebastes-schlegelii-under-noise-stress-from-offshore-wind-farms/
Wind farms in proximity to marine protected areas put conservation targets at risk #DEU
Abstract Special Protection Areas (SPAs) are an important EU legislative tool to protect species biodiversity. Red-throated loons Gavia stellata and black-throated loons G. arctica are the key species in the designation of the SPA ’Eastern German Bight’, located in the German Exclusive Economic Zone of the North Sea; however, one offshore windfarm (OWF) has been constructed within and four OWFs just outside this SPA within the last few years. The current study integrated previous findings on the strong avoidance of . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-in-proximity-to-marine-protected-areas-put-conservation-targets-at-risk/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-in-proximity-to-marine-protected-areas-put-conservation-targets-at-risk/
Transcriptomic analysis reveals the immune response mechanisms of sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus under noise stress from offshore wind turbine #CHN
Highlights Characteristic assessment of noise at the Bodhi Island offshore wind farm Underwater noise suppresses protein synthesis and cellular apoptosis in sea cucumber intestines Underwater noise causes oxidative damage to the body cavity of sea cucumber Lysosomes and pancreatic secretion support sea cucumbers’ nutrient and energy needs in adverse conditions Sea cucumbers’ immune system responds more to low-frequency noise than high-frequency Abstract As an important form of renewable energy, offshore wind power can effectively reduce dependence on traditional energy sources . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/transcriptomic-analysis-reveals-the-immune-response-mechanisms-of-sea-cucumber-apostichopus-japonicus-under-noise-stress-from-offshore-wind-turbine/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/transcriptomic-analysis-reveals-the-immune-response-mechanisms-of-sea-cucumber-apostichopus-japonicus-under-noise-stress-from-offshore-wind-turbine/
Transcriptomic analysis of the response mechanisms of black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) under noise stress from offshore wind farms #CHN
Highlights Extended exposure to noise could have implications for the immune system and cardiac health of black rockfish. The noise from offshore wind farms have adverse effects on the normal morphology of the sensory hair cells in black rockfish. Underwater noise causes metabolic disruption in black rockfish. Characteristic assessment of noise at the 5.2 MW single-pile foundation wind turbine in Shandong. Abstract During the operational phase of offshore wind farms, the generation of low-frequency underwater noise has received widespread attention due . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/transcriptomic-analysis-of-the-response-mechanisms-of-black-rockfish-sebastes-schlegelii-under-noise-stress-from-offshore-wind-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/transcriptomic-analysis-of-the-response-mechanisms-of-black-rockfish-sebastes-schlegelii-under-noise-stress-from-offshore-wind-farms/
Endangered Black-faced Spoonbills alter migration across the Yellow Sea due to offshore wind farms #CHN
The Black-faced Spoonbill (Platalea minor), an endangered and flagship species inhabiting coastal wetlands along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, migrates annually between its primary breeding grounds on the west coast of the Korean Peninsula and its wintering grounds, predominantly Japan, Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Vietnam. The Yellow Sea crossing, averaging 14.1 h, is perhaps the most challenging part of their migration. The southwest coast of the Yellow Sea, crucial for migratory birds, hosts the world’s largest concentration of operational offshore . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/endangered-black-faced-spoonbills-alter-migration-across-the-yellow-sea-due-to-offshore-wind-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/endangered-black-faced-spoonbills-alter-migration-across-the-yellow-sea-due-to-offshore-wind-farms/
Endangered Black-faced Spoonbills alter migration across the Yellow Sea due to offshore wind farms #CHN
The Black-faced Spoonbill (Platalea minor), an endangered and flagship species inhabiting coastal wetlands along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, migrates annually between its primary breeding grounds on the west coast of the Korean Peninsula and its wintering grounds, predominantly Japan, Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Vietnam. The Yellow Sea crossing, averaging 14.1 h, is perhaps the most challenging part of their migration. The southwest coast of the Yellow Sea, crucial for migratory birds, hosts the world’s largest concentration of operational offshore . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/endangered-black-faced-spoonbills-alter-migration-across-the-yellow-sea-due-to-offshore-wind-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/endangered-black-faced-spoonbills-alter-migration-across-the-yellow-sea-due-to-offshore-wind-farms/
Effect of particles from wind turbine blades erosion on blue mussels Mytilus edulis #DEU
Highlights First controlled lab experiment to study biological effects of LEE particles Application of an innovative analytical toolbox for effect assessment Enrichment factors for metals and metalloids determined in M. edulis ranged between 0.93 and 6.1 Metabolite investigation of the mussels’ entire soft body tissue revealed only weak MP-induced changes Abstract Offshore wind farms (OWFs) pose new anthropogenic pressures on the marine environment as the erosion of turbine blades release organic and inorganic substances with potential consequences for marine life. . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/effect-of-particles-from-wind-turbine-blades-erosion-on-blue-mussels-mytilus-edulis/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/effect-of-particles-from-wind-turbine-blades-erosion-on-blue-mussels-mytilus-edulis/
Effect of particles from wind turbine blades erosion on blue mussels Mytilus edulis #DEU
Highlights First controlled lab experiment to study biological effects of LEE particles Application of an innovative analytical toolbox for effect assessment Enrichment factors for metals and metalloids determined in M. edulis ranged between 0.93 and 6.1 Metabolite investigation of the mussels’ entire soft body tissue revealed only weak MP-induced changes Abstract Offshore wind farms (OWFs) pose new anthropogenic pressures on the marine environment as the erosion of turbine blades release organic and inorganic substances with potential consequences for marine life. . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/effect-of-particles-from-wind-turbine-blades-erosion-on-blue-mussels-mytilus-edulis/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/effect-of-particles-from-wind-turbine-blades-erosion-on-blue-mussels-mytilus-edulis/
Wind farms in proximity to marine protected areas put conservation targets at risk #DEU
Abstract Special Protection Areas (SPAs) are an important EU legislative tool to protect species biodiversity. Red-throated loons Gavia stellata and black-throated loons G. arctica are the key species in the designation of the SPA ’Eastern German Bight’, located in the German Exclusive Economic Zone of the North Sea; however, one offshore windfarm (OWF) has been constructed within and four OWFs just outside this SPA within the last few years. The current study integrated previous findings on the strong avoidance of . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-in-proximity-to-marine-protected-areas-put-conservation-targets-at-risk/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-in-proximity-to-marine-protected-areas-put-conservation-targets-at-risk/
Wind farms in proximity to marine protected areas put conservation targets at risk #DEU
Abstract Special Protection Areas (SPAs) are an important EU legislative tool to protect species biodiversity. Red-throated loons Gavia stellata and black-throated loons G. arctica are the key species in the designation of the SPA ’Eastern German Bight’, located in the German Exclusive Economic Zone of the North Sea; however, one offshore windfarm (OWF) has been constructed within and four OWFs just outside this SPA within the last few years. The current study integrated previous findings on the strong avoidance of . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-in-proximity-to-marine-protected-areas-put-conservation-targets-at-risk/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-in-proximity-to-marine-protected-areas-put-conservation-targets-at-risk/
Toward solving the global green–green dilemma between wind energy production and bat conservation
Abstract— Wind energy production is growing rapidly worldwide in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, wind energy production is not environmentally neutral. Negative impacts on volant animals, such as bats, include fatalities at turbines and habitat loss due to land-use change and displacement. Siting turbines away from ecologically sensitive areas and implementing measures to reduce fatalities are critical to protecting bat populations. Restricting turbine operations during periods of high bat activity is the most effective form of mitigation . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation-2/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation-2/
Operational wind plants increase planetary boundary layer height: An observational study #OK
These findings provide strong evidence that wind plants can modify the planetary boundary layer in their surrounding area … [T]his study corroborates the hypothesis that wind plants interact with the atmosphere to affect local climatology. Abstract. As wind energy deployment grows, interactions between wind plants and the surrounding environment become more prevalent. The current investigation seeks to understand these interactions by characterizing the impact of wind plants on the planetary boundary layer height (PBLH), utilizing observations from the American WAKE ExperimeNt . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/operational-wind-plants-increase-planetary-boundary-layer-height-an-observational-study/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/operational-wind-plants-increase-planetary-boundary-layer-height-an-observational-study/
Systematic assessment of the achieved emission reductions of carbon crediting projects
Abstract— Carbon markets play an important role in firms’ and governments’ climate strategies. Carbon crediting mechanisms allow project developers to earn carbon credits through mitigation projects. Several studies have raised concerns about environmental integrity, though a systematic evaluation is missing. We synthesized studies relying on experimental or rigorous observational methods, covering 14 studies on 2346 carbon mitigation projects and 51 studies investigating similar field interventions implemented without issuing carbon credits. The analysis covers one-fifth of the credit volume issued to . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/systematic-assessment-of-the-achieved-emission-reductions-of-carbon-crediting-projects/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/systematic-assessment-of-the-achieved-emission-reductions-of-carbon-crediting-projects/
Assessment of forest disturbance and soil erosion in wind farm project using satellite observations
Highlights A novel method was proposed to map forest disturbances from wind farm construction. The average forest disturbance intensity of wind farms is 4.3 ha/MW. Road construction is the primary factor causing forest disturbances. Reduced vegetation cover by wind power development exacerbates soil erosion. Abstract The construction of wind farms, involving road construction and wind turbine installation, severely disrupts natural landscapes. Wind energy expansion in global forested areas has unclear impacts on local forests and ecosystem services. Due to a lack . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/assessment-of-forest-disturbance-and-soil-erosion-in-wind-farm-project-using-satellite-observations/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/assessment-of-forest-disturbance-and-soil-erosion-in-wind-farm-project-using-satellite-observations/
Impact of wind energy on plant biomass production in China #CHN
Abstract— Global wind power expansion raises concerns about its potential impact on plant biomass production (PBP). Using a high-dimensional fixed effects model, this study reveals significant PBP reduction due to wind farm construction based on 2,404 wind farms, 108,361 wind turbines, and 7,904,352 PBP observations during 2000–2022 in China. Within a 1–10 km buffer, the normalized differential vegetation and enhanced vegetation indices decrease from 0.0097 to 0.0045 and 0.0075 to 0.0028, respectively. Similarly, absorbed photosynthetically active radiation and gross primary productivity . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-wind-energy-on-plant-biomass-production-in-china/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-wind-energy-on-plant-biomass-production-in-china/
Toward solving the global green–green dilemma between wind energy production and bat conservation
Abstract— Wind energy production is growing rapidly worldwide in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, wind energy production is not environmentally neutral. Negative impacts on volant animals, such as bats, include fatalities at turbines and habitat loss due to land-use change and displacement. Siting turbines away from ecologically sensitive areas and implementing measures to reduce fatalities are critical to protecting bat populations. Restricting turbine operations during periods of high bat activity is the most effective form of mitigation . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation-2/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation-2/
Wind energy and insects: reviewing the state of knowledge and identifying potential interactions
Abstract— In 2023 the wind industry hit a milestone of one terawatt of installed capacity globally. That amount is expected to double within the next decade as billions of dollars are invested in new wind projects annually. Wildlife mortality is a primary concern regarding the proliferation of wind power, and many studies have investigated bird and bat interactions. Little is known about the interactions between wind turbines and insects, despite these animals composing far more biomass than vertebrates. Turbine placement, . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-energy-and-insects-reviewing-the-state-of-knowledge-and-identifying-potential-interactions/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-energy-and-insects-reviewing-the-state-of-knowledge-and-identifying-potential-interactions/
Eleventh International Conference on Wind Turbine Noise
Wind Turbine Noise 2025 June 10–13, 2025 The WTN 2025 conference will be held at the Scandic Kødbyen hotel, Skelbækgade 3A, Copenhagen V. Important dates: February 2, 2025: Abstract submission deadline February 17, 2025: Abstract notification March 30, 2025: Paper deadline April 13, 2025: Paper notification WTN 2023 abstracts and papers
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/11/24/eleventh-international-conference-on-wind-turbine-noise/
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/11/24/eleventh-international-conference-on-wind-turbine-noise/
Toward solving the global green–green dilemma between wind energy production and bat conservation
Abstract— Wind energy production is growing rapidly worldwide in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, wind energy production is not environmentally neutral. Negative impacts on volant animals, such as bats, include fatalities at turbines and habitat loss due to land-use change and displacement. Siting turbines away from ecologically sensitive areas and implementing measures to reduce fatalities are critical to protecting bat populations. Restricting turbine operations during periods of high bat activity is the most effective form of mitigation . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation-2/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation-2/
Operational wind plants increase planetary boundary layer height: An observational study #OK
These findings provide strong evidence that wind plants can modify the planetary boundary layer in their surrounding area … [T]his study corroborates the hypothesis that wind plants interact with the atmosphere to affect local climatology. Abstract. As wind energy deployment grows, interactions between wind plants and the surrounding environment become more prevalent. The current investigation seeks to understand these interactions by characterizing the impact of wind plants on the planetary boundary layer height (PBLH), utilizing observations from the American WAKE ExperimeNt . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/operational-wind-plants-increase-planetary-boundary-layer-height-an-observational-study/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/operational-wind-plants-increase-planetary-boundary-layer-height-an-observational-study/
Operational wind plants increase planetary boundary layer height: An observational study #OK
These findings provide strong evidence that wind plants can modify the planetary boundary layer in their surrounding area … [T]his study corroborates the hypothesis that wind plants interact with the atmosphere to affect local climatology. Abstract. As wind energy deployment grows, interactions between wind plants and the surrounding environment become more prevalent. The current investigation seeks to understand these interactions by characterizing the impact of wind plants on the planetary boundary layer height (PBLH), utilizing observations from the American WAKE ExperimeNt . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/operational-wind-plants-increase-planetary-boundary-layer-height-an-observational-study/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/operational-wind-plants-increase-planetary-boundary-layer-height-an-observational-study/
Systematic assessment of the achieved emission reductions of carbon crediting projects
Abstract— Carbon markets play an important role in firms’ and governments’ climate strategies. Carbon crediting mechanisms allow project developers to earn carbon credits through mitigation projects. Several studies have raised concerns about environmental integrity, though a systematic evaluation is missing. We synthesized studies relying on experimental or rigorous observational methods, covering 14 studies on 2346 carbon mitigation projects and 51 studies investigating similar field interventions implemented without issuing carbon credits. The analysis covers one-fifth of the credit volume issued to . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/systematic-assessment-of-the-achieved-emission-reductions-of-carbon-crediting-projects/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/systematic-assessment-of-the-achieved-emission-reductions-of-carbon-crediting-projects/
U.S energy consumption by source and sector flow diagrams, 2023 #USA
Another version: Breakdown of renewables: Wind energy represented 18% of the energy (not just electricity) produced by renewables, or 1.5 quadrillion BTU. 1 quad = 293 TWh, so 1.5 quads = 439.5 TWh. Total electricity production was 32.09 quads, or 9,402 TWh. Line loss took away 0.61 quads, or 179 TWh, of that. Source: Monthly Energy Review, U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/u-s-energy-consumption-by-source-and-sector-flow-diagrams-2023/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/u-s-energy-consumption-by-source-and-sector-flow-diagrams-2023/
NO WIND TURBINES
No wind turbines - graphic from several counties in Oklahoma
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1034
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1034
Offshore Wind Impacts and Consequences #USA
Offshore wind turbines exceed 1000 ft. in total height. Many lease areas are owned by foreign wind companies, foreign pension plans and global investment firms. East Coast Projects • Vineyard Wind: jointly owned by a Danish infrastructure company and a Spanish utility. • Revolution Wind: partially owned by a Danish multinational energy company • Empire Wind: owned by Equinor Wind, a Norwegian company West Coast Projects: • Equinor/Atlas Wind: Norwegian company, partially owned by British Petroleum • Golden State/Central California . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-impacts-and-consequences/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-impacts-and-consequences/
Performance of Wind Farms in the United Kingdom and Denmark #DNK #GBR
Executive Summary 1. Onshore wind turbines represent a relatively mature technology, which ought to have achieved a satisfactory level of reliability in operation as plants age. Unfortunately, detailed analysis of the relationship between age and performance gives a rather different picture for both the United Kingdom and Denmark with a significant decline in the average load factor of onshore wind farms adjusted for wind availability as they get older. An even more dramatic decline is observed for offshore wind farms . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/performance-of-wind-farms-in-the-united-kingdom-and-denmark/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/performance-of-wind-farms-in-the-united-kingdom-and-denmark/
Systematic assessment of the achieved emission reductions of carbon crediting projects
Abstract— Carbon markets play an important role in firms’ and governments’ climate strategies. Carbon crediting mechanisms allow project developers to earn carbon credits through mitigation projects. Several studies have raised concerns about environmental integrity, though a systematic evaluation is missing. We synthesized studies relying on experimental or rigorous observational methods, covering 14 studies on 2346 carbon mitigation projects and 51 studies investigating similar field interventions implemented without issuing carbon credits. The analysis covers one-fifth of the credit volume issued to . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/systematic-assessment-of-the-achieved-emission-reductions-of-carbon-crediting-projects/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/systematic-assessment-of-the-achieved-emission-reductions-of-carbon-crediting-projects/
Assessment of forest disturbance and soil erosion in wind farm project using satellite observations
Highlights A novel method was proposed to map forest disturbances from wind farm construction. The average forest disturbance intensity of wind farms is 4.3 ha/MW. Road construction is the primary factor causing forest disturbances. Reduced vegetation cover by wind power development exacerbates soil erosion. Abstract The construction of wind farms, involving road construction and wind turbine installation, severely disrupts natural landscapes. Wind energy expansion in global forested areas has unclear impacts on local forests and ecosystem services. Due to a lack . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/assessment-of-forest-disturbance-and-soil-erosion-in-wind-farm-project-using-satellite-observations/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/assessment-of-forest-disturbance-and-soil-erosion-in-wind-farm-project-using-satellite-observations/
ILL WIND: From Amazon Forest Crimes in Ecuador to Wind Turbines in the U.S. and China #CHN #USA
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) built upon existing reporting and conducted an unprecedented multi-year ground-truthing investigation that connects the dots between the illegal logging and human rights violations reported in the Ecuadorian and Peruvian Amazon, the insufficient due diligence by world leading wind blade manufacturers, and global energy provider giants like the recently incorporated GE Vernova. At the nexus of Amazonian ecosystems, Indigenous People’s rights, wind turbines, and major policy incentives in both China and the U.S. lies . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/ill-wind-from-amazon-forest-crimes-in-ecuador-to-wind-turbines-in-the-u-s-and-china/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/ill-wind-from-amazon-forest-crimes-in-ecuador-to-wind-turbines-in-the-u-s-and-china/
Assessment of forest disturbance and soil erosion in wind farm project using satellite observations
Highlights A novel method was proposed to map forest disturbances from wind farm construction. The average forest disturbance intensity of wind farms is 4.3 ha/MW. Road construction is the primary factor causing forest disturbances. Reduced vegetation cover by wind power development exacerbates soil erosion. Abstract The construction of wind farms, involving road construction and wind turbine installation, severely disrupts natural landscapes. Wind energy expansion in global forested areas has unclear impacts on local forests and ecosystem services. Due to a lack . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/assessment-of-forest-disturbance-and-soil-erosion-in-wind-farm-project-using-satellite-observations/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/assessment-of-forest-disturbance-and-soil-erosion-in-wind-farm-project-using-satellite-observations/
Impact of wind energy on plant biomass production in China #CHN
Abstract— Global wind power expansion raises concerns about its potential impact on plant biomass production (PBP). Using a high-dimensional fixed effects model, this study reveals significant PBP reduction due to wind farm construction based on 2,404 wind farms, 108,361 wind turbines, and 7,904,352 PBP observations during 2000–2022 in China. Within a 1–10 km buffer, the normalized differential vegetation and enhanced vegetation indices decrease from 0.0097 to 0.0045 and 0.0075 to 0.0028, respectively. Similarly, absorbed photosynthetically active radiation and gross primary productivity . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-wind-energy-on-plant-biomass-production-in-china/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-wind-energy-on-plant-biomass-production-in-china/
Wind energy and insects: reviewing the state of knowledge and identifying potential interactions
Abstract— In 2023 the wind industry hit a milestone of one terawatt of installed capacity globally. That amount is expected to double within the next decade as billions of dollars are invested in new wind projects annually. Wildlife mortality is a primary concern regarding the proliferation of wind power, and many studies have investigated bird and bat interactions. Little is known about the interactions between wind turbines and insects, despite these animals composing far more biomass than vertebrates. Turbine placement, . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-energy-and-insects-reviewing-the-state-of-knowledge-and-identifying-potential-interactions/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-energy-and-insects-reviewing-the-state-of-knowledge-and-identifying-potential-interactions/
Impact of wind energy on plant biomass production in China #CHN
Abstract— Global wind power expansion raises concerns about its potential impact on plant biomass production (PBP). Using a high-dimensional fixed effects model, this study reveals significant PBP reduction due to wind farm construction based on 2,404 wind farms, 108,361 wind turbines, and 7,904,352 PBP observations during 2000–2022 in China. Within a 1–10 km buffer, the normalized differential vegetation and enhanced vegetation indices decrease from 0.0097 to 0.0045 and 0.0075 to 0.0028, respectively. Similarly, absorbed photosynthetically active radiation and gross primary productivity . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-wind-energy-on-plant-biomass-production-in-china/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-wind-energy-on-plant-biomass-production-in-china/
Wind energy and insects: reviewing the state of knowledge and identifying potential interactions
Abstract— In 2023 the wind industry hit a milestone of one terawatt of installed capacity globally. That amount is expected to double within the next decade as billions of dollars are invested in new wind projects annually. Wildlife mortality is a primary concern regarding the proliferation of wind power, and many studies have investigated bird and bat interactions. Little is known about the interactions between wind turbines and insects, despite these animals composing far more biomass than vertebrates. Turbine placement, . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-energy-and-insects-reviewing-the-state-of-knowledge-and-identifying-potential-interactions/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-energy-and-insects-reviewing-the-state-of-knowledge-and-identifying-potential-interactions/
U.S energy consumption by source and sector flow diagrams, 2023 #USA
Another version: Breakdown of renewables: Wind energy represented 18% of the energy (not just electricity) produced by renewables, or 1.5 quadrillion BTU. 1 quad = 293 TWh, so 1.5 quads = 439.5 TWh. Total electricity production was 32.09 quads, or 9,402 TWh. Line loss took away 0.61 quads, or 179 TWh, of that. Source: Monthly Energy Review, U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/u-s-energy-consumption-by-source-and-sector-flow-diagrams-2023/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/u-s-energy-consumption-by-source-and-sector-flow-diagrams-2023/
The Truth About Off-Shore Wind #CA
THE IMPACT TO MARINE LIFE IS DEVASTATING. • High-decibel surveys kill and injure sea life • Offshore wind vessel traffic kills and injures marine mammals • Severe disruption of marine mammal migration, feeding and breeding • Birds killed by turbine blades • Destroys underwater habitats COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC IMPACTS • Industrialization of our towns and harbors • Significant increase in energy costs • Severe negative impact to the fishing industry • Damage to our tourism and coastal beauty • 1000-ft.-tall . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/11/01/the-truth-about-off-shore-wind/
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/11/01/the-truth-about-off-shore-wind/
Offshore Wind Impacts and Consequences #USA
Offshore wind turbines exceed 1000 ft. in total height. Many lease areas are owned by foreign wind companies, foreign pension plans and global investment firms. East Coast Projects • Vineyard Wind: jointly owned by a Danish infrastructure company and a Spanish utility. • Revolution Wind: partially owned by a Danish multinational energy company • Empire Wind: owned by Equinor Wind, a Norwegian company West Coast Projects: • Equinor/Atlas Wind: Norwegian company, partially owned by British Petroleum • Golden State/Central California . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-impacts-and-consequences/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-impacts-and-consequences/
Performance of Wind Farms in the United Kingdom and Denmark #DNK #GBR
Executive Summary 1. Onshore wind turbines represent a relatively mature technology, which ought to have achieved a satisfactory level of reliability in operation as plants age. Unfortunately, detailed analysis of the relationship between age and performance gives a rather different picture for both the United Kingdom and Denmark with a significant decline in the average load factor of onshore wind farms adjusted for wind availability as they get older. An even more dramatic decline is observed for offshore wind farms . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/performance-of-wind-farms-in-the-united-kingdom-and-denmark/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/performance-of-wind-farms-in-the-united-kingdom-and-denmark/
U.S energy consumption by source and sector flow diagrams, 2023 #USA
Another version: Breakdown of renewables: Wind energy represented 18% of the energy (not just electricity) produced by renewables, or 1.5 quadrillion BTU. 1 quad = 293 TWh, so 1.5 quads = 439.5 TWh. Total electricity production was 32.09 quads, or 9,402 TWh. Line loss took away 0.61 quads, or 179 TWh, of that. Source: Monthly Energy Review, U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/u-s-energy-consumption-by-source-and-sector-flow-diagrams-2023/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/u-s-energy-consumption-by-source-and-sector-flow-diagrams-2023/
Economic Analysis of the Atlantic Shores South Offshore Wind Project #NJ
We the undersigned are deeply concerned with the large subsidies and rate increases supporting offshore wind development. In particular, we object to permitting Atlantic Shores to re-bid its existing contract for Offshore Renewable Energy Certificates (ORECs) pursuant to the subject solicitation. As the Board’s procedures do not permit our direct involvement in this procurement, we wish to hereby register our concerns and objections to any potential award of revised or new contracts to this contractor. Atlantic Shores has indicated that . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/economic-analysis-of-the-atlantic-shores-south-offshore-wind-project/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/economic-analysis-of-the-atlantic-shores-south-offshore-wind-project/
Offshore Wind Impacts and Consequences #USA
Offshore wind turbines exceed 1000 ft. in total height. Many lease areas are owned by foreign wind companies, foreign pension plans and global investment firms. East Coast Projects • Vineyard Wind: jointly owned by a Danish infrastructure company and a Spanish utility. • Revolution Wind: partially owned by a Danish multinational energy company • Empire Wind: owned by Equinor Wind, a Norwegian company West Coast Projects: • Equinor/Atlas Wind: Norwegian company, partially owned by British Petroleum • Golden State/Central California . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-impacts-and-consequences/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-impacts-and-consequences/
Performance of Wind Farms in the United Kingdom and Denmark #DNK #GBR
Executive Summary 1. Onshore wind turbines represent a relatively mature technology, which ought to have achieved a satisfactory level of reliability in operation as plants age. Unfortunately, detailed analysis of the relationship between age and performance gives a rather different picture for both the United Kingdom and Denmark with a significant decline in the average load factor of onshore wind farms adjusted for wind availability as they get older. An even more dramatic decline is observed for offshore wind farms . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/performance-of-wind-farms-in-the-united-kingdom-and-denmark/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/performance-of-wind-farms-in-the-united-kingdom-and-denmark/
ILL WIND: From Amazon Forest Crimes in Ecuador to Wind Turbines in the U.S. and China #CHN #USA
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) built upon existing reporting and conducted an unprecedented multi-year ground-truthing investigation that connects the dots between the illegal logging and human rights violations reported in the Ecuadorian and Peruvian Amazon, the insufficient due diligence by world leading wind blade manufacturers, and global energy provider giants like the recently incorporated GE Vernova. At the nexus of Amazonian ecosystems, Indigenous People’s rights, wind turbines, and major policy incentives in both China and the U.S. lies . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/ill-wind-from-amazon-forest-crimes-in-ecuador-to-wind-turbines-in-the-u-s-and-china/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/ill-wind-from-amazon-forest-crimes-in-ecuador-to-wind-turbines-in-the-u-s-and-china/
ILL WIND: From Amazon Forest Crimes in Ecuador to Wind Turbines in the U.S. and China #CHN #USA
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) built upon existing reporting and conducted an unprecedented multi-year ground-truthing investigation that connects the dots between the illegal logging and human rights violations reported in the Ecuadorian and Peruvian Amazon, the insufficient due diligence by world leading wind blade manufacturers, and global energy provider giants like the recently incorporated GE Vernova. At the nexus of Amazonian ecosystems, Indigenous People’s rights, wind turbines, and major policy incentives in both China and the U.S. lies . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/ill-wind-from-amazon-forest-crimes-in-ecuador-to-wind-turbines-in-the-u-s-and-china/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/ill-wind-from-amazon-forest-crimes-in-ecuador-to-wind-turbines-in-the-u-s-and-china/
Impact of a two-dimensional steep hill on wind turbine noise propagation
Abstract— Wind turbine noise propagation in a hilly terrain is studied through numerical simulation in different scenarios. Linearized Euler equations are solved in a moving frame that follows the wavefront, and wind turbine noise is modeled with an extended moving source. We employ large-eddy simulations to simulate the flow around the hill and the wind turbine. The sound pressure levels (SPLs) obtained for a wind turbine in front of a 2D hill and a wind turbine on a hilltop are . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-a-two-dimensional-steep-hill-on-wind-turbine-noise-propagation/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-a-two-dimensional-steep-hill-on-wind-turbine-noise-propagation/
Quantifying the visual impact of wind farm lights on the nocturnal landscape #PRT
Highlights— A model for quantifying light pollution from wind turbine lights is proposed. Brightness of lights from wind turbines can far exceed that of the brightest stars. The visual range of wind farms at night is generally larger than at daytime. A study of the visual impact at night of four prospective windfarms is presented. The model proposed may be used in environmental impact and landscape assessments. ABSTRACT— Wind farm lights are a conspicuous feature in the nocturnal landscape. Their . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/quantifying-the-visual-impact-of-wind-farm-lights-on-the-nocturnal-landscape/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/quantifying-the-visual-impact-of-wind-farm-lights-on-the-nocturnal-landscape/
Economic Analysis of the Atlantic Shores South Offshore Wind Project #NJ
We the undersigned are deeply concerned with the large subsidies and rate increases supporting offshore wind development. In particular, we object to permitting Atlantic Shores to re-bid its existing contract for Offshore Renewable Energy Certificates (ORECs) pursuant to the subject solicitation. As the Board’s procedures do not permit our direct involvement in this procurement, we wish to hereby register our concerns and objections to any potential award of revised or new contracts to this contractor. Atlantic Shores has indicated that . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/economic-analysis-of-the-atlantic-shores-south-offshore-wind-project/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/economic-analysis-of-the-atlantic-shores-south-offshore-wind-project/
Economic Analysis of the Atlantic Shores South Offshore Wind Project #NJ
We the undersigned are deeply concerned with the large subsidies and rate increases supporting offshore wind development. In particular, we object to permitting Atlantic Shores to re-bid its existing contract for Offshore Renewable Energy Certificates (ORECs) pursuant to the subject solicitation. As the Board’s procedures do not permit our direct involvement in this procurement, we wish to hereby register our concerns and objections to any potential award of revised or new contracts to this contractor. Atlantic Shores has indicated that . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/economic-analysis-of-the-atlantic-shores-south-offshore-wind-project/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/economic-analysis-of-the-atlantic-shores-south-offshore-wind-project/
Offshore Observations of Eastern Red Bats (Lasiurus borealis) in the Mid-Atlantic United States Using Multiple Survey Methods #DE #MD #VA
Abstract— Little is known about the migration and movements of migratory tree-roosting bat species in North America, though anecdotal observations of migrating bats over the Atlantic Ocean have been reported since at least the 1890s. Aerial surveys and boat-based surveys of wildlife off the Atlantic Seaboard detected a possible diurnal migration event of eastern red bats (Lasiurus borealis) in September 2012. One bat was sighted approximately 44 km east of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware during a boat-based survey. Eleven additional bats . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-observations-of-eastern-red-bats-lasiurus-borealis-in-the-mid-atlantic-united-states-using-multiple-survey-methods/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-observations-of-eastern-red-bats-lasiurus-borealis-in-the-mid-atlantic-united-states-using-multiple-survey-methods/
Influence of wind on kittiwake Rissa tridactyla flight and offshore wind turbine collision risk #SCT #GBR
Abstract — Offshore windfarms are a potential threat to seabirds, partly due to collision risk with turbine blades. Wind influences the mode, height and speed of seabird flight, and therefore the risk of collision with turbines. We investigated how wind influences the flight of black-legged kittiwakes Rissa tridactyla, a gull of conservation concern, in order to incorporate these findings into collision risk estimates and identify mitigation measures. We used GPS telemetry data (23rd June to 10th August 2021) from 20 . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/influence-of-wind-on-kittiwake-rissa-tridactyla-flight-and-offshore-wind-turbine-collision-risk/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/influence-of-wind-on-kittiwake-rissa-tridactyla-flight-and-offshore-wind-turbine-collision-risk/
Impact of a two-dimensional steep hill on wind turbine noise propagation
Abstract— Wind turbine noise propagation in a hilly terrain is studied through numerical simulation in different scenarios. Linearized Euler equations are solved in a moving frame that follows the wavefront, and wind turbine noise is modeled with an extended moving source. We employ large-eddy simulations to simulate the flow around the hill and the wind turbine. The sound pressure levels (SPLs) obtained for a wind turbine in front of a 2D hill and a wind turbine on a hilltop are . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-a-two-dimensional-steep-hill-on-wind-turbine-noise-propagation/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-a-two-dimensional-steep-hill-on-wind-turbine-noise-propagation/
Impact of a two-dimensional steep hill on wind turbine noise propagation
Abstract— Wind turbine noise propagation in a hilly terrain is studied through numerical simulation in different scenarios. Linearized Euler equations are solved in a moving frame that follows the wavefront, and wind turbine noise is modeled with an extended moving source. We employ large-eddy simulations to simulate the flow around the hill and the wind turbine. The sound pressure levels (SPLs) obtained for a wind turbine in front of a 2D hill and a wind turbine on a hilltop are . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-a-two-dimensional-steep-hill-on-wind-turbine-noise-propagation/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-a-two-dimensional-steep-hill-on-wind-turbine-noise-propagation/
Quantifying the visual impact of wind farm lights on the nocturnal landscape #PRT
Highlights— A model for quantifying light pollution from wind turbine lights is proposed. Brightness of lights from wind turbines can far exceed that of the brightest stars. The visual range of wind farms at night is generally larger than at daytime. A study of the visual impact at night of four prospective windfarms is presented. The model proposed may be used in environmental impact and landscape assessments. ABSTRACT— Wind farm lights are a conspicuous feature in the nocturnal landscape. Their . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/quantifying-the-visual-impact-of-wind-farm-lights-on-the-nocturnal-landscape/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/quantifying-the-visual-impact-of-wind-farm-lights-on-the-nocturnal-landscape/
Quantifying the visual impact of wind farm lights on the nocturnal landscape #PRT
Highlights— A model for quantifying light pollution from wind turbine lights is proposed. Brightness of lights from wind turbines can far exceed that of the brightest stars. The visual range of wind farms at night is generally larger than at daytime. A study of the visual impact at night of four prospective windfarms is presented. The model proposed may be used in environmental impact and landscape assessments. ABSTRACT— Wind farm lights are a conspicuous feature in the nocturnal landscape. Their . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/quantifying-the-visual-impact-of-wind-farm-lights-on-the-nocturnal-landscape/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/quantifying-the-visual-impact-of-wind-farm-lights-on-the-nocturnal-landscape/
Dumped wind turbine blades
These blades were dumped in Newton, Iowa - photo from Iowa Department of Natural Resources
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1033
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1033
Offshore Observations of Eastern Red Bats (Lasiurus borealis) in the Mid-Atlantic United States Using Multiple Survey Methods #DE #MD #VA
Abstract— Little is known about the migration and movements of migratory tree-roosting bat species in North America, though anecdotal observations of migrating bats over the Atlantic Ocean have been reported since at least the 1890s. Aerial surveys and boat-based surveys of wildlife off the Atlantic Seaboard detected a possible diurnal migration event of eastern red bats (Lasiurus borealis) in September 2012. One bat was sighted approximately 44 km east of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware during a boat-based survey. Eleven additional bats . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-observations-of-eastern-red-bats-lasiurus-borealis-in-the-mid-atlantic-united-states-using-multiple-survey-methods/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-observations-of-eastern-red-bats-lasiurus-borealis-in-the-mid-atlantic-united-states-using-multiple-survey-methods/
Influence of wind on kittiwake Rissa tridactyla flight and offshore wind turbine collision risk #SCT #GBR
Abstract — Offshore windfarms are a potential threat to seabirds, partly due to collision risk with turbine blades. Wind influences the mode, height and speed of seabird flight, and therefore the risk of collision with turbines. We investigated how wind influences the flight of black-legged kittiwakes Rissa tridactyla, a gull of conservation concern, in order to incorporate these findings into collision risk estimates and identify mitigation measures. We used GPS telemetry data (23rd June to 10th August 2021) from 20 . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/influence-of-wind-on-kittiwake-rissa-tridactyla-flight-and-offshore-wind-turbine-collision-risk/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/influence-of-wind-on-kittiwake-rissa-tridactyla-flight-and-offshore-wind-turbine-collision-risk/
Offshore Observations of Eastern Red Bats (Lasiurus borealis) in the Mid-Atlantic United States Using Multiple Survey Methods #DE #MD #VA
Abstract— Little is known about the migration and movements of migratory tree-roosting bat species in North America, though anecdotal observations of migrating bats over the Atlantic Ocean have been reported since at least the 1890s. Aerial surveys and boat-based surveys of wildlife off the Atlantic Seaboard detected a possible diurnal migration event of eastern red bats (Lasiurus borealis) in September 2012. One bat was sighted approximately 44 km east of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware during a boat-based survey. Eleven additional bats . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-observations-of-eastern-red-bats-lasiurus-borealis-in-the-mid-atlantic-united-states-using-multiple-survey-methods/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-observations-of-eastern-red-bats-lasiurus-borealis-in-the-mid-atlantic-united-states-using-multiple-survey-methods/
Oil leak, St. Lawrence Wind
Oil leak at St. Lawrence Wind Project, Burin Peninsula, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1032
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1032
Influence of wind on kittiwake Rissa tridactyla flight and offshore wind turbine collision risk #SCT #GBR
Abstract — Offshore windfarms are a potential threat to seabirds, partly due to collision risk with turbine blades. Wind influences the mode, height and speed of seabird flight, and therefore the risk of collision with turbines. We investigated how wind influences the flight of black-legged kittiwakes Rissa tridactyla, a gull of conservation concern, in order to incorporate these findings into collision risk estimates and identify mitigation measures. We used GPS telemetry data (23rd June to 10th August 2021) from 20 . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/influence-of-wind-on-kittiwake-rissa-tridactyla-flight-and-offshore-wind-turbine-collision-risk/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/influence-of-wind-on-kittiwake-rissa-tridactyla-flight-and-offshore-wind-turbine-collision-risk/
Victorian Transmission Plan and Guidelines: impact on dairy farms #AUS
Joseph and Anna Conheady’s submission to the Government’s (Stage 1) Renewable Energy public submission process. Some background info: In order to grow their dairy farming enterprise Joseph and Anna need worker accommodation. But the Victorian Labor Government and the Wind Industry have ganged up on all Victorian Farmers to stifle the expansion of farms. In 2021, the Vic Govt introduced a planning provision (Victoria Planning Provisions 35.07-6 Decision guidelines (13/10/2021 VC212)) to prevent farmers from building worker accommodation within 1km . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/victorian-transmission-plan-and-guidelines-impact-on-dairy-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/victorian-transmission-plan-and-guidelines-impact-on-dairy-farms/
Offshore Wind Turbine Visibility and Visual Impact Threshold Distances #GBR #USA
[Abstract] Potential visual impact on coastal lands has emerged as a major concern in the development of offshore wind facilities in the United States and Europe. Optimal siting of offshore facilities requires accurate knowledge of the relationship between distance and the visibility of wind turbines. Past assessments of offshore wind turbine visibility were based on smaller turbines and facilities in use at the time and underestimate visibility for current projects, which use more and larger larger turbines. This study is . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-turbine-visibility-and-visual-impact-threshold-distances/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-turbine-visibility-and-visual-impact-threshold-distances/
Strategies for Mitigating Impacts to Aerofauna from Offshore Wind Energy Development: Available Evidence and Data Gaps
Abstract— Offshore wind energy (OSW) development, while a key strategy for reducing global reliance on fossil fuels, nevertheless has environmental effects that should be mitigated. We reviewed the scientific literature and gray literature to identify approaches for mitigating (e.g., avoiding, minimizing, or compensating for) the effects of OSW development on birds and bats (aerofauna). The review included studies from other industries where relevant, including terrestrial wind energy and the offshore oil and gas industry. Of a total of 212 mitigation . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/strategies-for-mitigating-impacts-to-aerofauna-from-offshore-wind-energy-development-available-evidence-and-data-gaps/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/strategies-for-mitigating-impacts-to-aerofauna-from-offshore-wind-energy-development-available-evidence-and-data-gaps/
Monopile-induced turbulence and sediment redistribution form visible wakes in offshore wind farms
[abstract] Offshore wind farms are becoming an increasingly common feature in the marine environment as a renewable energy source. There is a growing body of evidence on the effects of wind farms on the seabed and its organisms. However, an important and understudied aspect of site development is the interaction of turbine foundations on the surrounding marine environment. Structures exert significant disturbance on tides, waves and currents; these are visible as optically-distinct, elongate wakes at the sea surface with elevated . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/monopile-induced-turbulence-and-sediment-redistribution-form-visible-wakes-in-offshore-wind-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/monopile-induced-turbulence-and-sediment-redistribution-form-visible-wakes-in-offshore-wind-farms/
Toward solving the global green–green dilemma between wind energy production and bat conservation
Abstract— Wind energy production is growing rapidly worldwide in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, wind energy production is not environmentally neutral. Negative impacts on volant animals, such as bats, include fatalities at turbines and habitat loss due to land-use change and displacement. Siting turbines away from ecologically sensitive areas and implementing measures to reduce fatalities are critical to protecting bat populations. Restricting turbine operations during periods of high bat activity is the most effective form of mitigation . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation/
Victorian Transmission Plan and Guidelines: impact on dairy farms #AUS
Joseph and Anna Conheady’s submission to the Government’s (Stage 1) Renewable Energy public submission process. Some background info: In order to grow their dairy farming enterprise Joseph and Anna need worker accommodation. But the Victorian Labor Government and the Wind Industry have ganged up on all Victorian Farmers to stifle the expansion of farms. In 2021, the Vic Govt introduced a planning provision (Victoria Planning Provisions 35.07-6 Decision guidelines (13/10/2021 VC212)) to prevent farmers from building worker accommodation within 1km . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/victorian-transmission-plan-and-guidelines-impact-on-dairy-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/victorian-transmission-plan-and-guidelines-impact-on-dairy-farms/
Offshore Wind Turbine Visibility and Visual Impact Threshold Distances #GBR #USA
[Abstract] Potential visual impact on coastal lands has emerged as a major concern in the development of offshore wind facilities in the United States and Europe. Optimal siting of offshore facilities requires accurate knowledge of the relationship between distance and the visibility of wind turbines. Past assessments of offshore wind turbine visibility were based on smaller turbines and facilities in use at the time and underestimate visibility for current projects, which use more and larger larger turbines. This study is . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-turbine-visibility-and-visual-impact-threshold-distances/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-turbine-visibility-and-visual-impact-threshold-distances/
Victorian Transmission Plan and Guidelines: impact on dairy farms #AUS
Joseph and Anna Conheady’s submission to the Government’s (Stage 1) Renewable Energy public submission process. Some background info: In order to grow their dairy farming enterprise Joseph and Anna need worker accommodation. But the Victorian Labor Government and the Wind Industry have ganged up on all Victorian Farmers to stifle the expansion of farms. In 2021, the Vic Govt introduced a planning provision (Victoria Planning Provisions 35.07-6 Decision guidelines (13/10/2021 VC212)) to prevent farmers from building worker accommodation within 1km . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/victorian-transmission-plan-and-guidelines-impact-on-dairy-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/victorian-transmission-plan-and-guidelines-impact-on-dairy-farms/
Offshore Wind Turbine Visibility and Visual Impact Threshold Distances #GBR #USA
[Abstract] Potential visual impact on coastal lands has emerged as a major concern in the development of offshore wind facilities in the United States and Europe. Optimal siting of offshore facilities requires accurate knowledge of the relationship between distance and the visibility of wind turbines. Past assessments of offshore wind turbine visibility were based on smaller turbines and facilities in use at the time and underestimate visibility for current projects, which use more and larger larger turbines. This study is . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-turbine-visibility-and-visual-impact-threshold-distances/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/offshore-wind-turbine-visibility-and-visual-impact-threshold-distances/
Flight behaviour of Red Kites within their breeding area in relation to local weather variables #DEU
Abstract 1. Birds and bats are prone to collisions with wind turbines. To reduce the number of bat collisions, weather variables are commonly used to shut down wind turbines when a certain constellation of weather variables occurs. Such a general approach might also be interesting to mitigate raptor collisions. Studies on the relationship between flight behaviour and weather variables are needed. 2. To investigate the flight behaviour of raptors within their breeding area in relation to local weather variables, we . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/flight-behaviour-of-red-kites-within-their-breeding-area-in-relation-to-local-weather-variables/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/flight-behaviour-of-red-kites-within-their-breeding-area-in-relation-to-local-weather-variables/
Strategies for Mitigating Impacts to Aerofauna from Offshore Wind Energy Development: Available Evidence and Data Gaps
Abstract— Offshore wind energy (OSW) development, while a key strategy for reducing global reliance on fossil fuels, nevertheless has environmental effects that should be mitigated. We reviewed the scientific literature and gray literature to identify approaches for mitigating (e.g., avoiding, minimizing, or compensating for) the effects of OSW development on birds and bats (aerofauna). The review included studies from other industries where relevant, including terrestrial wind energy and the offshore oil and gas industry. Of a total of 212 mitigation . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/strategies-for-mitigating-impacts-to-aerofauna-from-offshore-wind-energy-development-available-evidence-and-data-gaps/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/strategies-for-mitigating-impacts-to-aerofauna-from-offshore-wind-energy-development-available-evidence-and-data-gaps/
Monopile-induced turbulence and sediment redistribution form visible wakes in offshore wind farms
[abstract] Offshore wind farms are becoming an increasingly common feature in the marine environment as a renewable energy source. There is a growing body of evidence on the effects of wind farms on the seabed and its organisms. However, an important and understudied aspect of site development is the interaction of turbine foundations on the surrounding marine environment. Structures exert significant disturbance on tides, waves and currents; these are visible as optically-distinct, elongate wakes at the sea surface with elevated . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/monopile-induced-turbulence-and-sediment-redistribution-form-visible-wakes-in-offshore-wind-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/monopile-induced-turbulence-and-sediment-redistribution-form-visible-wakes-in-offshore-wind-farms/
Toward solving the global green–green dilemma between wind energy production and bat conservation
Abstract— Wind energy production is growing rapidly worldwide in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, wind energy production is not environmentally neutral. Negative impacts on volant animals, such as bats, include fatalities at turbines and habitat loss due to land-use change and displacement. Siting turbines away from ecologically sensitive areas and implementing measures to reduce fatalities are critical to protecting bat populations. Restricting turbine operations during periods of high bat activity is the most effective form of mitigation . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation/
Strategies for Mitigating Impacts to Aerofauna from Offshore Wind Energy Development: Available Evidence and Data Gaps
Abstract— Offshore wind energy (OSW) development, while a key strategy for reducing global reliance on fossil fuels, nevertheless has environmental effects that should be mitigated. We reviewed the scientific literature and gray literature to identify approaches for mitigating (e.g., avoiding, minimizing, or compensating for) the effects of OSW development on birds and bats (aerofauna). The review included studies from other industries where relevant, including terrestrial wind energy and the offshore oil and gas industry. Of a total of 212 mitigation . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/strategies-for-mitigating-impacts-to-aerofauna-from-offshore-wind-energy-development-available-evidence-and-data-gaps/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/strategies-for-mitigating-impacts-to-aerofauna-from-offshore-wind-energy-development-available-evidence-and-data-gaps/
Monopile-induced turbulence and sediment redistribution form visible wakes in offshore wind farms
[abstract] Offshore wind farms are becoming an increasingly common feature in the marine environment as a renewable energy source. There is a growing body of evidence on the effects of wind farms on the seabed and its organisms. However, an important and understudied aspect of site development is the interaction of turbine foundations on the surrounding marine environment. Structures exert significant disturbance on tides, waves and currents; these are visible as optically-distinct, elongate wakes at the sea surface with elevated . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/monopile-induced-turbulence-and-sediment-redistribution-form-visible-wakes-in-offshore-wind-farms/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/monopile-induced-turbulence-and-sediment-redistribution-form-visible-wakes-in-offshore-wind-farms/
Toward solving the global green–green dilemma between wind energy production and bat conservation
Abstract— Wind energy production is growing rapidly worldwide in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, wind energy production is not environmentally neutral. Negative impacts on volant animals, such as bats, include fatalities at turbines and habitat loss due to land-use change and displacement. Siting turbines away from ecologically sensitive areas and implementing measures to reduce fatalities are critical to protecting bat populations. Restricting turbine operations during periods of high bat activity is the most effective form of mitigation . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/toward-solving-the-global-green-green-dilemma-between-wind-energy-production-and-bat-conservation/
Avian collisions at two wind farms in Tasmania, Australia: taxonomic and ecological characteristics of colliders versus non-colliders #AUS
Data obtained during carcass and bird utilisation surveys conducted over an approximately 10- year period at two wind farms in northwest Tasmania (Bluff Point Wind Farm [BPWF] and Studland Bay Wind Farm [SBWF]) were compared. Of the species present onsite only 21% at the BPWF and 18% at the SBWF were found to collide with turbines, indicating that presence onsite was a poor indicator of collision risk. Furthermore, there was a poor relationship between abundance onsite and collisions with turbines. . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/avian-collisions-at-two-wind-farms-in-tasmania-australia-taxonomic-and-ecological-characteristics-of-colliders-versus-non-colliders/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/avian-collisions-at-two-wind-farms-in-tasmania-australia-taxonomic-and-ecological-characteristics-of-colliders-versus-non-colliders/
Wind farms threaten southern Africa’s cliff-nesting vultures
[Abstract] Wind farms have been shown to cause bird mortality in many studies. Proposals for the development of wind farms in Lesotho, which is core habitat for small and declining populations of the regionally Endangered Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus meridionalis and regionally and globally Vulnerable southern African endemic Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres is therefore of concern. We use satellite tracking data to demonstrate that southern African Bearded Vultures spend the majority of their time foraging in landscape zones typically chosen . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-threaten-southern-africas-cliff-nesting-vultures/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-threaten-southern-africas-cliff-nesting-vultures/
Size comparisons of wind turbines operating and proposed in Alberta
Size comparisons of wind turbines operating and proposed in Alberta - from Wind Concerns
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1031
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1031
A synthetic analysis of post-construction displacement and attraction of marine birds at offshore wind energy installations
[ABSTRACT] Changes in the distribution of marine birds in their at-sea foraging, resting, and migratory habitats are frequently observed following construction of offshore wind energy installations. However, the presence and strength of both displacement and attraction effects have been shown to vary widely among species and locations. An understanding of the underlying factors driving both occurrence and detection of distributional changes is required to inform wind farm design and develop best practices for environmental impact assessment, monitoring, and mitigation. Drawing . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/a-synthetic-analysis-of-post-construction-displacement-and-attraction-of-marine-birds-at-offshore-wind-energy-installations/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/a-synthetic-analysis-of-post-construction-displacement-and-attraction-of-marine-birds-at-offshore-wind-energy-installations/
Pile of discarded wind turbine blades in Minnesota
Discarded wind turbine blades are piled up along almost the entire west border of Darcy Richardson’s property in Grand Meadow, Minnesota - photo by Renée Jones Schneider, Star Tribune, August 7, 2024
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1030
https://www.wind-watch.org/pix/displayimage.php?pid=1030
Flight behaviour of Red Kites within their breeding area in relation to local weather variables #DEU
Abstract 1. Birds and bats are prone to collisions with wind turbines. To reduce the number of bat collisions, weather variables are commonly used to shut down wind turbines when a certain constellation of weather variables occurs. Such a general approach might also be interesting to mitigate raptor collisions. Studies on the relationship between flight behaviour and weather variables are needed. 2. To investigate the flight behaviour of raptors within their breeding area in relation to local weather variables, we . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/flight-behaviour-of-red-kites-within-their-breeding-area-in-relation-to-local-weather-variables/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/flight-behaviour-of-red-kites-within-their-breeding-area-in-relation-to-local-weather-variables/
Flight behaviour of Red Kites within their breeding area in relation to local weather variables #DEU
Abstract 1. Birds and bats are prone to collisions with wind turbines. To reduce the number of bat collisions, weather variables are commonly used to shut down wind turbines when a certain constellation of weather variables occurs. Such a general approach might also be interesting to mitigate raptor collisions. Studies on the relationship between flight behaviour and weather variables are needed. 2. To investigate the flight behaviour of raptors within their breeding area in relation to local weather variables, we . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/flight-behaviour-of-red-kites-within-their-breeding-area-in-relation-to-local-weather-variables/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/flight-behaviour-of-red-kites-within-their-breeding-area-in-relation-to-local-weather-variables/
Avian collisions at two wind farms in Tasmania, Australia: taxonomic and ecological characteristics of colliders versus non-colliders #AUS
Data obtained during carcass and bird utilisation surveys conducted over an approximately 10- year period at two wind farms in northwest Tasmania (Bluff Point Wind Farm [BPWF] and Studland Bay Wind Farm [SBWF]) were compared. Of the species present onsite only 21% at the BPWF and 18% at the SBWF were found to collide with turbines, indicating that presence onsite was a poor indicator of collision risk. Furthermore, there was a poor relationship between abundance onsite and collisions with turbines. . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/avian-collisions-at-two-wind-farms-in-tasmania-australia-taxonomic-and-ecological-characteristics-of-colliders-versus-non-colliders/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/avian-collisions-at-two-wind-farms-in-tasmania-australia-taxonomic-and-ecological-characteristics-of-colliders-versus-non-colliders/
Wind farms threaten southern Africa’s cliff-nesting vultures
[Abstract] Wind farms have been shown to cause bird mortality in many studies. Proposals for the development of wind farms in Lesotho, which is core habitat for small and declining populations of the regionally Endangered Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus meridionalis and regionally and globally Vulnerable southern African endemic Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres is therefore of concern. We use satellite tracking data to demonstrate that southern African Bearded Vultures spend the majority of their time foraging in landscape zones typically chosen . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-threaten-southern-africas-cliff-nesting-vultures/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-threaten-southern-africas-cliff-nesting-vultures/
Avian collisions at two wind farms in Tasmania, Australia: taxonomic and ecological characteristics of colliders versus non-colliders #AUS
Data obtained during carcass and bird utilisation surveys conducted over an approximately 10- year period at two wind farms in northwest Tasmania (Bluff Point Wind Farm [BPWF] and Studland Bay Wind Farm [SBWF]) were compared. Of the species present onsite only 21% at the BPWF and 18% at the SBWF were found to collide with turbines, indicating that presence onsite was a poor indicator of collision risk. Furthermore, there was a poor relationship between abundance onsite and collisions with turbines. . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/avian-collisions-at-two-wind-farms-in-tasmania-australia-taxonomic-and-ecological-characteristics-of-colliders-versus-non-colliders/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/avian-collisions-at-two-wind-farms-in-tasmania-australia-taxonomic-and-ecological-characteristics-of-colliders-versus-non-colliders/
A synthetic analysis of post-construction displacement and attraction of marine birds at offshore wind energy installations
[ABSTRACT] Changes in the distribution of marine birds in their at-sea foraging, resting, and migratory habitats are frequently observed following construction of offshore wind energy installations. However, the presence and strength of both displacement and attraction effects have been shown to vary widely among species and locations. An understanding of the underlying factors driving both occurrence and detection of distributional changes is required to inform wind farm design and develop best practices for environmental impact assessment, monitoring, and mitigation. Drawing . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/a-synthetic-analysis-of-post-construction-displacement-and-attraction-of-marine-birds-at-offshore-wind-energy-installations/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/a-synthetic-analysis-of-post-construction-displacement-and-attraction-of-marine-birds-at-offshore-wind-energy-installations/
Wind farms threaten southern Africa’s cliff-nesting vultures
[Abstract] Wind farms have been shown to cause bird mortality in many studies. Proposals for the development of wind farms in Lesotho, which is core habitat for small and declining populations of the regionally Endangered Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus meridionalis and regionally and globally Vulnerable southern African endemic Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres is therefore of concern. We use satellite tracking data to demonstrate that southern African Bearded Vultures spend the majority of their time foraging in landscape zones typically chosen . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-threaten-southern-africas-cliff-nesting-vultures/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-farms-threaten-southern-africas-cliff-nesting-vultures/
A synthetic analysis of post-construction displacement and attraction of marine birds at offshore wind energy installations
[ABSTRACT] Changes in the distribution of marine birds in their at-sea foraging, resting, and migratory habitats are frequently observed following construction of offshore wind energy installations. However, the presence and strength of both displacement and attraction effects have been shown to vary widely among species and locations. An understanding of the underlying factors driving both occurrence and detection of distributional changes is required to inform wind farm design and develop best practices for environmental impact assessment, monitoring, and mitigation. Drawing . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/a-synthetic-analysis-of-post-construction-displacement-and-attraction-of-marine-birds-at-offshore-wind-energy-installations/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/a-synthetic-analysis-of-post-construction-displacement-and-attraction-of-marine-birds-at-offshore-wind-energy-installations/
Fact sheets from Protect Our Coast #USA
Creation & Operation Birds, Bats, Bees Blades & Toxic Materials Protect Our Coast, Long Island, New York
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/07/21/fact-sheets-from-protect-our-coast/
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/07/21/fact-sheets-from-protect-our-coast/
Wind Dreams: Why wind power will always be niche
The optimal amount of practical wind power in the global energy mix is greater than zero. It is also much less than 100%. Today I argue why the proportion of wind power in the global electricity generation mix is always going to be closer to zero than to 100%. That doesn’t mean that wind power is not of value or useful, but it does mean that wind power is not going to drive a global energy transformation, or even be . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-dreams-why-wind-power-will-always-be-niche/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-dreams-why-wind-power-will-always-be-niche/
Construction photos: the Black Forest #DEU
In the Kinzigtal valley, 2021 (from Windradfreies Laufbachtal): On the Schauinsland mountain, 2023-2024 (from Susanne Hänßel at Schwarzwald-Heimat Bühlertal): On the Schauinsland mountain, 2023-2024 (from Unser Schauinsland):
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/construction-photos-the-black-forest/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/construction-photos-the-black-forest/
High Cost of 100 Percent Carbon-Free Electricity by 2040 #MN
Governor Walz’s proposal would cost Minnesota $313 billion through 2050 and lead to blackouts. Executive Summary Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s proposal for a 100 percent carbon-free electric grid by 2040 will cost Minnesota families and businesses an additional $313.2 billion (in constant 2022 dollars) through 2050, compared to operating the current electric grid. Minnesota electricity customers will see their electricity expenses increase by an average of nearly $3,888 per year, every year, through 2050. According to the economic modeling software . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/high-cost-of-100-percent-carbon-free-electricity-by-2040/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/high-cost-of-100-percent-carbon-free-electricity-by-2040/
Wind Dreams: Why wind power will always be niche
The optimal amount of practical wind power in the global energy mix is greater than zero. It is also much less than 100%. Today I argue why the proportion of wind power in the global electricity generation mix is always going to be closer to zero than to 100%. That doesn’t mean that wind power is not of value or useful, but it does mean that wind power is not going to drive a global energy transformation, or even be . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-dreams-why-wind-power-will-always-be-niche/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-dreams-why-wind-power-will-always-be-niche/
Wind Dreams: Why wind power will always be niche
The optimal amount of practical wind power in the global energy mix is greater than zero. It is also much less than 100%. Today I argue why the proportion of wind power in the global electricity generation mix is always going to be closer to zero than to 100%. That doesn’t mean that wind power is not of value or useful, but it does mean that wind power is not going to drive a global energy transformation, or even be . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-dreams-why-wind-power-will-always-be-niche/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/wind-dreams-why-wind-power-will-always-be-niche/
Construction photos: the Black Forest #DEU
In the Kinzigtal valley, 2021 (from Windradfreies Laufbachtal): On the Schauinsland mountain, 2023-2024 (from Susanne Hänßel at Schwarzwald-Heimat Bühlertal): On the Schauinsland mountain, 2023-2024 (from Unser Schauinsland):
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/construction-photos-the-black-forest/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/construction-photos-the-black-forest/
Construction photos: the Black Forest #DEU
In the Kinzigtal valley, 2021 (from Windradfreies Laufbachtal): On the Schauinsland mountain, 2023-2024 (from Susanne Hänßel at Schwarzwald-Heimat Bühlertal): On the Schauinsland mountain, 2023-2024 (from Unser Schauinsland):
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/construction-photos-the-black-forest/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/construction-photos-the-black-forest/
High Cost of 100 Percent Carbon-Free Electricity by 2040 #MN
Governor Walz’s proposal would cost Minnesota $313 billion through 2050 and lead to blackouts. Executive Summary Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s proposal for a 100 percent carbon-free electric grid by 2040 will cost Minnesota families and businesses an additional $313.2 billion (in constant 2022 dollars) through 2050, compared to operating the current electric grid. Minnesota electricity customers will see their electricity expenses increase by an average of nearly $3,888 per year, every year, through 2050. According to the economic modeling software . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/high-cost-of-100-percent-carbon-free-electricity-by-2040/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/high-cost-of-100-percent-carbon-free-electricity-by-2040/
Windwahn: Der Windwahn und seine klimatischen Konsequenzen #DEU
[The wind madness and its climatic consequences] Windwahn: Der Windwahn und seine klimatischen Konsequenzen Manfred Brugger Novum Verlag, 2024
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/06/29/windwahn-der-windwahn-und-seine-klimatischen-konsequenzen/
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/06/29/windwahn-der-windwahn-und-seine-klimatischen-konsequenzen/
High Cost of 100 Percent Carbon-Free Electricity by 2040 #MN
Governor Walz’s proposal would cost Minnesota $313 billion through 2050 and lead to blackouts. Executive Summary Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s proposal for a 100 percent carbon-free electric grid by 2040 will cost Minnesota families and businesses an additional $313.2 billion (in constant 2022 dollars) through 2050, compared to operating the current electric grid. Minnesota electricity customers will see their electricity expenses increase by an average of nearly $3,888 per year, every year, through 2050. According to the economic modeling software . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/high-cost-of-100-percent-carbon-free-electricity-by-2040/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/high-cost-of-100-percent-carbon-free-electricity-by-2040/
How offshore wind drives up global carbon emissions #USA
Executive Summary Offshore wind facilities are enormously expensive and environmentally destructive. The primary purported justification for constructing them is to reduce “carbon” (carbon dioxide or CO₂) emissions and save the planet from “catastrophic climate change.” However, this justification is not just built on a false premise, but adding offshore wind to a state’s energy mix will most likely also increase global CO₂ emissions. That means the net emission benefits are hugely negative, as are other net environmental and economic effects. . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/how-offshore-wind-drives-up-global-carbon-emissions/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/how-offshore-wind-drives-up-global-carbon-emissions/
How offshore wind drives up global carbon emissions #USA
Executive Summary Offshore wind facilities are enormously expensive and environmentally destructive. The primary purported justification for constructing them is to reduce “carbon” (carbon dioxide or CO₂) emissions and save the planet from “catastrophic climate change.” However, this justification is not just built on a false premise, but adding offshore wind to a state’s energy mix will most likely also increase global CO₂ emissions. That means the net emission benefits are hugely negative, as are other net environmental and economic effects. . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/how-offshore-wind-drives-up-global-carbon-emissions/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/how-offshore-wind-drives-up-global-carbon-emissions/
How offshore wind drives up global carbon emissions #USA
Executive Summary Offshore wind facilities are enormously expensive and environmentally destructive. The primary purported justification for constructing them is to reduce “carbon” (carbon dioxide or CO₂) emissions and save the planet from “catastrophic climate change.” However, this justification is not just built on a false premise, but adding offshore wind to a state’s energy mix will most likely also increase global CO₂ emissions. That means the net emission benefits are hugely negative, as are other net environmental and economic effects. . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/how-offshore-wind-drives-up-global-carbon-emissions/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/how-offshore-wind-drives-up-global-carbon-emissions/
Impact of offshore wind farms on a tropical depression through the amplification effect by the downstream mountainous terrain #CHN
Highlights The evolution of a tropical depression is modified significantly by upstream offshore wind farms. The enhancement of convergence in the western side of the tropical depression is associated with gravity waves. Wind-farm wakes affect the low-level vertical wind shear through the downstream mountainous terrain. Abstract The influence of offshore wind farms in the northern South China Sea on a tropical depression far away (over the Beibu Gulf) is investigated through a fully coupled atmosphere-ocean model. Results show that in . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-offshore-wind-farms-on-a-tropical-depression-through-the-amplification-effect-by-the-downstream-mountainous-terrain/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-offshore-wind-farms-on-a-tropical-depression-through-the-amplification-effect-by-the-downstream-mountainous-terrain/
Three Decades of Wind Industry Deception: A Chronology of a Global Conspiracy of Silence and Subterfuge
In this timeline, STT sets out a chronology of what the wind industry and its pet acoustic consultants knew (and when they knew it); what the wind industry did in response to that knowledge; and how the wind industry and its parasites are fighting tooth and nail at present to ensure that that knowledge has no impact on its freedom to ride roughshod over the human rights, health and well-being of people living next door to wind farms.
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/three-decades-of-wind-industry-deception-a-chronology-of-a-global-conspiracy-of-silence-and-subterfuge/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/three-decades-of-wind-industry-deception-a-chronology-of-a-global-conspiracy-of-silence-and-subterfuge/
Seasonal variability of wake impacts on US mid-Atlantic offshore wind plant power production #USA
Abstract. Wind turbines and wind plants create wakes, or regions of reduced wind speed, that may negatively affect downwind turbines and plants. We evaluate wake variability and annual energy production with the first yearlong modeling assessment using the Weather Research and Forecasting model, deploying 12 MW turbines across the domain at a density of 3.14 MW km−2, matching the planned density of 3 MW km−2. Using a series of simulations with no wind plants, one wind plant, and complete build-out of lease areas, we calculate . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/seasonal-variability-of-wake-impacts-on-us-mid-atlantic-offshore-wind-plant-power-production/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/seasonal-variability-of-wake-impacts-on-us-mid-atlantic-offshore-wind-plant-power-production/
Impact of offshore wind farms on a tropical depression through the amplification effect by the downstream mountainous terrain #CHN
Highlights The evolution of a tropical depression is modified significantly by upstream offshore wind farms. The enhancement of convergence in the western side of the tropical depression is associated with gravity waves. Wind-farm wakes affect the low-level vertical wind shear through the downstream mountainous terrain. Abstract The influence of offshore wind farms in the northern South China Sea on a tropical depression far away (over the Beibu Gulf) is investigated through a fully coupled atmosphere-ocean model. Results show that in . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-offshore-wind-farms-on-a-tropical-depression-through-the-amplification-effect-by-the-downstream-mountainous-terrain/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-offshore-wind-farms-on-a-tropical-depression-through-the-amplification-effect-by-the-downstream-mountainous-terrain/
Three Decades of Wind Industry Deception: A Chronology of a Global Conspiracy of Silence and Subterfuge
In this timeline, STT sets out a chronology of what the wind industry and its pet acoustic consultants knew (and when they knew it); what the wind industry did in response to that knowledge; and how the wind industry and its parasites are fighting tooth and nail at present to ensure that that knowledge has no impact on its freedom to ride roughshod over the human rights, health and well-being of people living next door to wind farms.
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/three-decades-of-wind-industry-deception-a-chronology-of-a-global-conspiracy-of-silence-and-subterfuge/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/three-decades-of-wind-industry-deception-a-chronology-of-a-global-conspiracy-of-silence-and-subterfuge/
Seasonal variability of wake impacts on US mid-Atlantic offshore wind plant power production #USA
Abstract. Wind turbines and wind plants create wakes, or regions of reduced wind speed, that may negatively affect downwind turbines and plants. We evaluate wake variability and annual energy production with the first yearlong modeling assessment using the Weather Research and Forecasting model, deploying 12 MW turbines across the domain at a density of 3.14 MW km−2, matching the planned density of 3 MW km−2. Using a series of simulations with no wind plants, one wind plant, and complete build-out of lease areas, we calculate . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/seasonal-variability-of-wake-impacts-on-us-mid-atlantic-offshore-wind-plant-power-production/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/seasonal-variability-of-wake-impacts-on-us-mid-atlantic-offshore-wind-plant-power-production/
Impact of offshore wind farms on a tropical depression through the amplification effect by the downstream mountainous terrain #CHN
Highlights The evolution of a tropical depression is modified significantly by upstream offshore wind farms. The enhancement of convergence in the western side of the tropical depression is associated with gravity waves. Wind-farm wakes affect the low-level vertical wind shear through the downstream mountainous terrain. Abstract The influence of offshore wind farms in the northern South China Sea on a tropical depression far away (over the Beibu Gulf) is investigated through a fully coupled atmosphere-ocean model. Results show that in . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-offshore-wind-farms-on-a-tropical-depression-through-the-amplification-effect-by-the-downstream-mountainous-terrain/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impact-of-offshore-wind-farms-on-a-tropical-depression-through-the-amplification-effect-by-the-downstream-mountainous-terrain/
Three Decades of Wind Industry Deception: A Chronology of a Global Conspiracy of Silence and Subterfuge
In this timeline, STT sets out a chronology of what the wind industry and its pet acoustic consultants knew (and when they knew it); what the wind industry did in response to that knowledge; and how the wind industry and its parasites are fighting tooth and nail at present to ensure that that knowledge has no impact on its freedom to ride roughshod over the human rights, health and well-being of people living next door to wind farms.
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/three-decades-of-wind-industry-deception-a-chronology-of-a-global-conspiracy-of-silence-and-subterfuge/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/three-decades-of-wind-industry-deception-a-chronology-of-a-global-conspiracy-of-silence-and-subterfuge/
Seasonal variability of wake impacts on US mid-Atlantic offshore wind plant power production #USA
Abstract. Wind turbines and wind plants create wakes, or regions of reduced wind speed, that may negatively affect downwind turbines and plants. We evaluate wake variability and annual energy production with the first yearlong modeling assessment using the Weather Research and Forecasting model, deploying 12 MW turbines across the domain at a density of 3.14 MW km−2, matching the planned density of 3 MW km−2. Using a series of simulations with no wind plants, one wind plant, and complete build-out of lease areas, we calculate . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/seasonal-variability-of-wake-impacts-on-us-mid-atlantic-offshore-wind-plant-power-production/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/seasonal-variability-of-wake-impacts-on-us-mid-atlantic-offshore-wind-plant-power-production/
How to Run a Campaign to Stop Big Energy #SCT
We at Communities B4 Power Companies (CB4PC) have been asked on several occasions, ‘Where do we start?’ Starting a campaign can be overwhelming. Not only are most people embarking upon a leadership role they had never anticipated, but it’s probably one that involves learning a whole new subject! But once you get stuck in, you will find people support you and want to lend a hand. Your knowledge of the new subject grows daily and you will begin to feel . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/04/28/how-to-run-a-campaign-to-stop-big-energy/
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/04/28/how-to-run-a-campaign-to-stop-big-energy/
Ask Questions Before Signing a Contract #WI
GET INFORMED BEFORE SIGNING! ASK QUESTIONS! Does signing an Option Contract lock me in with a developer for turbines, whether I want them or not? Is the original contract term 50 years? How long is the developer’s option to extend? Will my children and grandchildren be tied to the contract after I’m gone? How much of my land will the wind turbine developer have 100% access to for building roads, placing buried and above-ground transmission lines, and installing turbines? Will . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/04/27/ask-questions-before-signing-a-contract/
https://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/2024/04/27/ask-questions-before-signing-a-contract/
Mount Fyans Wind Energy Facility Planning Panel Report #AUS
The Mount Fyans Wind Energy Facility (the Project) involves the construction and operation of a 400-megawatt, 81 turbine wind energy facility with associated infrastructure. The Project extends over 10,686 hectares on land used predominantly for grazing and cropping. The Project is located approximately 5 kilometres north of Mortlake within the Moyne Shire in south- west Victoria. The Applicant for the Project is Mount Fyans Wind Farm Pty Ltd which operates three wind energy facilities in Tasmania. Planning permit application PA1800406, . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/mount-fyans-wind-energy-facility-planning-panel-report/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/mount-fyans-wind-energy-facility-planning-panel-report/
Threat of mining to African great apes
Abstract: The rapid growth of clean energy technologies is driving a rising demand for critical minerals. In 2022 at the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15), seven major economies formed an alliance to enhance the sustainability of mining these essential decarbonization minerals. However, there is a scarcity of studies assessing the threat of mining to global biodiversity. By integrating a global mining dataset with great ape density distribution, we estimated the number of African . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/threat-of-mining-to-african-great-apes/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/threat-of-mining-to-african-great-apes/
Impairment of the Endothelium and Disorder of Microcirculation in Humans and Animals Exposed to Infrasound Due to Irregular Mechano-Transduction
Abstract: The microcirculation of mammals is an autoregulated and complex synchronised system according to the current demand for nutrients and oxygen. The undisturbed course of vital functions such as of growth, blood pressure regulation, inflammatory sequence and embryogenesis is bound to endothelial integrity. The sensible vasomotion is particularly dependent on it. Mechano-transduction signalling networks play a critical role in vital cellular processes and are the decisive physiological mechanism for an adequate nitric oxide release, the main pathway responsible for the . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impairment-of-the-endothelium-and-disorder-of-microcirculation-in-humans-and-animals-exposed-to-infrasound-due-to-irregular-mechano-transduction/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impairment-of-the-endothelium-and-disorder-of-microcirculation-in-humans-and-animals-exposed-to-infrasound-due-to-irregular-mechano-transduction/
Sonar Vessel Noise Survey #NJ
Reports of recent whale and dolphin deaths on and near the New York and New Jersey shores, and public concerns of marine noise impacts from offshore wind development activities, prompted an investigation into the sonar noise levels produced by exploratory survey vessels working in ocean areas leased by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). This technical report presents the methodology, analysis and results of a brief independent investigation of underwater noise levels from a sonar survey vessel, conducted offshore . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/sonar-vessel-noise-survey/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/sonar-vessel-noise-survey/
Mount Fyans Wind Energy Facility Planning Panel Report #AUS
The Mount Fyans Wind Energy Facility (the Project) involves the construction and operation of a 400-megawatt, 81 turbine wind energy facility with associated infrastructure. The Project extends over 10,686 hectares on land used predominantly for grazing and cropping. The Project is located approximately 5 kilometres north of Mortlake within the Moyne Shire in south- west Victoria. The Applicant for the Project is Mount Fyans Wind Farm Pty Ltd which operates three wind energy facilities in Tasmania. Planning permit application PA1800406, . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/mount-fyans-wind-energy-facility-planning-panel-report/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/mount-fyans-wind-energy-facility-planning-panel-report/
Mount Fyans Wind Energy Facility Planning Panel Report #AUS
The Mount Fyans Wind Energy Facility (the Project) involves the construction and operation of a 400-megawatt, 81 turbine wind energy facility with associated infrastructure. The Project extends over 10,686 hectares on land used predominantly for grazing and cropping. The Project is located approximately 5 kilometres north of Mortlake within the Moyne Shire in south- west Victoria. The Applicant for the Project is Mount Fyans Wind Farm Pty Ltd which operates three wind energy facilities in Tasmania. Planning permit application PA1800406, . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/mount-fyans-wind-energy-facility-planning-panel-report/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/mount-fyans-wind-energy-facility-planning-panel-report/
Threat of mining to African great apes
Abstract: The rapid growth of clean energy technologies is driving a rising demand for critical minerals. In 2022 at the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15), seven major economies formed an alliance to enhance the sustainability of mining these essential decarbonization minerals. However, there is a scarcity of studies assessing the threat of mining to global biodiversity. By integrating a global mining dataset with great ape density distribution, we estimated the number of African . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/threat-of-mining-to-african-great-apes/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/threat-of-mining-to-african-great-apes/
Cost of Wind: The Negative Economic Effects of Global Wind Energy Development
Abstract: This paper provides a structured literature review of the negative economic effects associated with the development of wind energy and synthesized the evidence at an abstract level. We then developed an analytical framework to systematically review economic issues such as volatility, electricity price, housing values, and unemployment in relation to wind energy. Global wind energy development data from the time period from 2000 through 2019 were included for a more robust analysis. This period encompasses the vast majority of . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/cost-of-wind-the-negative-economic-effects-of-global-wind-energy-development/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/cost-of-wind-the-negative-economic-effects-of-global-wind-energy-development/
Impairment of the Endothelium and Disorder of Microcirculation in Humans and Animals Exposed to Infrasound Due to Irregular Mechano-Transduction
Abstract: The microcirculation of mammals is an autoregulated and complex synchronised system according to the current demand for nutrients and oxygen. The undisturbed course of vital functions such as of growth, blood pressure regulation, inflammatory sequence and embryogenesis is bound to endothelial integrity. The sensible vasomotion is particularly dependent on it. Mechano-transduction signalling networks play a critical role in vital cellular processes and are the decisive physiological mechanism for an adequate nitric oxide release, the main pathway responsible for the . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impairment-of-the-endothelium-and-disorder-of-microcirculation-in-humans-and-animals-exposed-to-infrasound-due-to-irregular-mechano-transduction/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/impairment-of-the-endothelium-and-disorder-of-microcirculation-in-humans-and-animals-exposed-to-infrasound-due-to-irregular-mechano-transduction/
Webster/Rollo and Shorten/Carty vs Meenacloghspar Wind #IRL
Judgment of Ms. Justice Emily Egan delivered on the 8th day of March 2024 Ballyduff, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford— 582. I find that there are frequent and sustained periods during which AM [amplitude modulation] values are conservatively in excess of 5 or 6 dBA. I also find that there are regular periods during which the AM values are considerably in excess of 6 dBA, in the order of 10 dBA or more. I find that such high AM values exacerbate the . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/webster-rollo-and-shorten-carty-vs-meenacloghspar-wind/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/webster-rollo-and-shorten-carty-vs-meenacloghspar-wind/
Threat of mining to African great apes
Abstract: The rapid growth of clean energy technologies is driving a rising demand for critical minerals. In 2022 at the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15), seven major economies formed an alliance to enhance the sustainability of mining these essential decarbonization minerals. However, there is a scarcity of studies assessing the threat of mining to global biodiversity. By integrating a global mining dataset with great ape density distribution, we estimated the number of African . . .
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/threat-of-mining-to-african-great-apes/
https://www.wind-watch.org/documents/threat-of-mining-to-african-great-apes/
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