Anti-Wind Energy Myths Corrected in New Report

A new report released today corrects the misinformation being promoted by anti-wind farm activists around Ontario. Blowing Smoke: Correcting Anti-Wind Myths in Ontario finds that study after study around the world has concluded that there is no scientific basis for claims about health impacts from wind power projects, and that wind power is both technically viable and has economic and environmental benefits for Ontario.

"There is a tremendous amount of fear-mongering going on right now about wind power in Ontario," said Adam Scott, Green Energy Program Manager, Environmental Defence. "This report aims to introduce some real facts into the debate so that communities can make well informed decisions about wind projects."

The report cites studies that show that with setbacks, wind power projects make as much sound as background noise in a regular home, but that whether or not this bothers people is often in the ear of the beholder – those who are more bothered are those who object to the project in the first place on other grounds. Those who benefit are less bothered.

"Communities must be better integrated into the management and benefits of wind power projects," said Kristopher Stevens, Executive Director of the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association. "Ultimately, community acceptance will determine whether or not Ontario remains a leader in clean energy, or whether we let other jurisdictions take the investment and jobs away from us."

The report also debunks the arguments that wind power isn’t a viable source of power for the grid. Other jurisdictions like Denmark and Germany are already successfully integrating much larger amounts of wind power into their grids, and are aiming to add even more. Finally, the report also points at job creation taking place around Ontario due to wind projects, dispelling the claims that no job creation is going on.

Environmental Defence is Canada’s most effective environmental action organization. We challenge, and inspire change in government, business and people to ensure a greener, healthier and prosperous life for all. The Ontario Sustainable Energy Association inspires and enables the people of Ontario to improve their environment, their economy and their health by producing clean, sustainable energy in their homes, businesses and their communities.

The report Blowing Smoke: Correcting Anti-Wind Myths in Ontario can be found at

http://environmentaldefence.ca/reports/blowing-smoke-correcting-anti-wind-myths-in-ontario