Wind energy is quite popular across Texas. Both businesses and individual property owners may install wind turbines or even a large-scale wind farm to produce electricity. They may do so either to offset the cost of electricity used or to generate revenue.
Particularly when the plan involves a large-scale wind energy production endeavor, property owners and businesses may face pushback from those who live nearby. Community members sometimes take issue with a proposed wind farm project. The three issues below are among the most common reasons that people oppose wind turbine installation.
Hazards to wildlife
Many people who live in rural areas take great joy in observing the natural world. They might take issue with any proposed developments that could threaten local wildlife. Wind turbines have developed a negative reputation for endangering birds. Particularly if the area sees migratory songbirds or has endangered species present, others living in the community may question the appropriateness of a wind farm even though wind farms technically kill fewer birds than cats and vehicle collisions.
Loss of wind turbine productivity
The existence of another wind turbine installation might be the cause of conflict in some cases. The existing wind turbines might see a drop in productivity due to the installation of a large-scale wind farm downwind. The bigger the proposed wind farm project and the closer it is to established wind turbines, the more likely the owners of those turbines are to worry about a drop in electricity generation.
Auditory and visual concerns
People often worry about the aesthetic impact of wind turbines and how that might affect either their enjoyment of a property or their real estate values. Concerns about noise and the visual impact of wind turbines could lead to local property owners fighting the installation of a wind farm.
Community feedback could prevent a wind energy project from moving forward. The issues that neighbors have with a wind farm could also potentially lead to a lawsuit. Businesses and property owners who understand the likelihood of pushback might find it easier to navigate the permitting process for a substantial wind energy project. Learning more about what might trigger local opposition, and seeking legal guidance accordingly, may benefit those interested in wind energy.
