THE SOUND OF WIND

The facts about wind turbine sound
John Dunlop, October 11, 2009 (Minneapolis Star Tribune)

"…Nationally, wind power has become one of our economy's mainstream electricity sources, accounting for 42 percent of the generating capacity added last year…Yet…questions are still sometimes raised about the potential impact. We welcome the opportunity to set the record straight…

"Wind turbine sounds are no different from other sounds present in a suburban or urban environment. The sound of a turbine is mainly due to the aerodynamic swish of the blades rotating in the air."

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"Turbines can also emit some low-frequency sound. Acoustical experts agree there is no evidence that such sounds, which are emitted by a variety of sources, could be harmful to health -- indeed, if these levels were so harmful, urban dwelling would be impossible…[T]urbine sound is quieter than many ambient sounds and is equally safe…[though some] may be disturbed by even a relatively quiet sound…

"Wind turbines are one of the most environmentally benign forms of electricity generation and allow most preexisting land uses -- typically ranching and farming -- to continue as before…[C]ows graze up to the foot of the turbines…Wind turbines safely operate on schoolyards…Many permitting agencies have, however, established minimum required setbacks…[W]here no required setbacks have been established, developers will work with local stakeholders during the siting and design phase…"

From videomarkHD129 via YouTube

"Lights are needed on wind turbines to ensure air traffic safety under Federal Aviation Administration standards…Typically, lights on the turbines around the perimeter of a wind farm will be sufficient.

"…[O]ur electricity must come from somewhere. Some of the best winds in the world blow across the American landscape…[A 2008 report from] the U.S. Department of Energy confirmed that wind power could generate 20 percent of the nation's electricity by 2030 -- a share as large as that of nuclear power today -- and that this level is not a limit. The report found no technical or macroeconomic barriers…[Economic benefits] include more income for landowners (and thus for communities) and more stability in electricity prices as a larger share of our electricity becomes immune to the impacts of fuel price volatility…[S]top at a wind farm to see and hear…[S]hut off the car, get out, look and listen. You'll hear the gentle swoosh of the blades and see the power of wind in action…Wind turbines are indeed a change in our landscape. They are the symbol of our clean and healthy energy future…"