Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) welcomes the decision of the Environmental Review Tribunal

"The wind energy industry welcomes the tribunal’s decision, as it is consistent with the balance of expert scientific and medical information which clearly indicates there is no direct link between wind turbines and effects on human health," said Scott Smith, vice-president of policy for CanWEA. "We look forward to working with all governments to ensure regulations and standards are developed and enforced that are consistent with the protection of human health and safety."

Currently, Ontario’s setback of 550 metres for wind turbines are among the most stringent standards in North America, said Smith. In March 2011, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice ruled in favour of the provincial renewable energy framework, citing that standards were developed following public consultation and review of science-based evidence. The ruling was consistent with reports produced by the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, the National Public Health Institute in Quebec, and a growing body of peer-reviewed scientific and medical information which state there is no direct link between wind turbines and effects on human health.

"As a responsible industry, we are interested in sustainable development of wind for the benefit of all Ontarians. We will continue to receive and review new and credible information pertaining to wind energy and human health as it is made available," said Smith.

www.canwea.ca