Wind power myths can be dispelled through community engagement.
The energy revolution is gaining momentum in the wake of the state government’s plan to attract large-scale clean energy projects to Western Australia.
Already in WA there are 20 operational wind farms with a capacity of more than one megawatt, with a further 31 wind farm projects proposed.
These numbers are set to increase rapidly, with local and overseas investors already scouting WA’s coastline and inland, where wind power is poised to take centre stage.
Companies are vying for prime land to install wind turbines; a shift from the traditional approach of keeping power sources out of sight and out of mind.
In the face of global energy security concerns, wind power emerges as one of the most cost effective and substantial sources of renewable energy. It is estimated to have powered more than 6.5 million households in Australia – constituting more than 35 per cent of total renewable generation – in 2022.
Despite wind power not being a new concept, it faces branding issues and is susceptible to misconceptions and myths. The conversations can be challenging, at times emotive, and often misguided.
In 2015, then prime minister Tony Abbott labelled the single turbine on Rottnest Island as “ugly” and “noisy”, and questioned whether they caused human health problems. These remarks may still resonate with others in the community, with commonly voiced concerns regarding wind power including fears of blackouts, noise pollution, disruption to wildlife, the generation of land waste, devaluation of land, and the loss of prime land for alternative purposes.
One significant concern associated with wind turbines is their carbon footprint, spanning a lifecycle of 20 to 30-plus years. Fortunately, advancements have made 85 to 94 per cent of a wind turbine recyclable; primarily the steel, aluminium, copper, and cast iron components, which can be recycled in Australia. Though there is room for improvement, this is a positive step compared to existing energy sources.
The rapid pace of consumption and our demand for unlimited electricity on tap presents a substantial public relations challenge for renewable energy producers. The fear of intermittent wind poses questions about energy disruption, from the potential impact on households through to medical facilities and grocery storage.
However, it is essential to recognise that wind is just one part of the diverse and evolving energy grid, which will include renewables, virtual power plants, battery storage and ageing traditional generation sources.
A common misconception about wind turbines is that they generate an excessive amount of noise, particularly when becoming more integrated into residential areas. The good news is that significant improvements have been made in this area as turbine designs have improved, including blade design and tower construction.
In many areas, however, noise pollution is minimised through community engagement and effective planning, with turbines placed more strategically.
The visual impact of wind farms on landscapes is subjective, akin to opinions on architecture or industrial modernist art. While their presence on our skylines will take some getting used to, I would argue the improved designs are preferable to smoggy skies or alternative energy infrastructure with largescale concrete structures being the norm.
It’s clear that any form of change to a natural environment can disrupt the ecosystem regardless of the industry. While wind farms have less of an impact on flora and fauna than other forms of energy production, they have their share, from the effects on bats to the migratory routes of birds.
What is important is that careful planning, impact mitigation and management strategies are employed when deciding where to build renewable energy developments like wind farms. Renewable energy developments certainly shouldn’t add to the broader challenges that are already facing our native flora and fauna.
According to Energy Minister Chris Bowen in 2022, 40 or so 7MW wind turbines will need to be built every month until 2030 if we are to meet our carbon emissions targets. WA will need to play its role in achieving that.
However, as we begin what will be a rapid transition to address energy security and climate risk, we can’t let fear and uncertainty escalate in the community. It’s time for government and companies to get on the front foot and engage with local communities on the benefits of renewables, including wind power, and bring them along, as we take up the global challenge.
- James Curtis is CEO of Element
