Currently we have no Regulation - Look what Poor Banking Regulation has done to Ireland
Wind energy is part of the solution to our renewable energy needs. It must be done in a sustainable way and serve the needs of society.
1. Preferred ownership models for wind farms should be semi-state
(ie. ESB or Bord na Mona), or local co-op and local community shareholdings.
The opposite to this is currently happening.
2. Local and national energy
requirements need to be served from wind generation in the first instance and
only surplus power should be then exported. This approach could help alleviate
fuel poverty and reduce the states over dependence on expensive fossil fuel.
The current plan is to export all of the electricity from the giant turbines
planned in the Midlands.
3. Statutory Regulations re planning for all projects are urgently
required. Current guidelines do not adequately manage the erection of wind
turbines. The absence of regulations, even of the ‘light touch’ variety, is
causing confusion and suspicion for communities in the vicinity of wind farms.
The current guidelines were introduced when wind turbines were much smaller.
There should be a minimum distance from homes for wind turbines. What was
proposed in a Bill passed through the Seanad was that:
· Wind Turbines under 50m in
height should be a minimum distance of 500m · Wind Turbines under 100m in height should be a minimum
distance of 1000m
· Wind Turbines under 150m
in height should be a minimum distance of 1500m
· Wind Turbines over 150m in
height should be a minimum distance of 2000m
There should also be a study
as to whether there should be a maximum height permitted for turbines in
Ireland.
4. Local Development Plans should be used for the placing of wind
farms. Local councillors should designate suitable locations for wind farms in
their counties. The County Development Plan must be used as the primary
template for selecting locations.
5.
There must be a moratorium on the construction of wind farms until proper regulations are
in place.
Sinn Féin Mountmellick-Serving The Community
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