Big Guns Backing Case for Wind

Big Guns Backing Case for Wind

Sep 20 - The Journal - Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Nearly three-quarters of the population agree that wind farms are necessary to help meet current and future energy needs in the UK, despite a vocal protest against their expansion, it is reported today.

Now a campaign by the British Wind Energy Association will unite those in favour of wind farms and challenge myths that they are unpopular, noisy and a blot on the landscape.

The Embrace The Revolution campaign already has the backing of high-profile supporters from the worlds of design, architecture, music and the media.

Guy Berryman, from the band Coldplay, fashion designer Wayne Hemingway, Bishop of Liverpool the Rt Rev James Jones, London Eye architects Marks Barfield, and TV and radio presenter Chris Tarrant are among the list of wind energy champions.

Mr Tarrant said: "Wind turbines are modern- day guardian angels ( a stunning addition to our rural landscape and a must if we are to move toward a future powered by green energy."

David Marks and Julia Barfield, who created the London Eye, said: "Wind turbine technology available now provides the best environmentally sustainable and economically viable source of renewable energy. That is why we are actively exploring ways to incorporate wind turbines within landmark buildings that we are designing today."

The bishop said: "I support the development of wind energy as a vital contributor to the range of renewable sources of energy that are urgently needed to secure the well-being of the earth."

New research demonstrates strong public endorsement for wind. The findings highlight differences in opinion between those who have and those who have not seen a wind farm, with those who have being more supportive.

* 74pc agree that wind farms are necessary so that we can produce renewable energy to help us meet current and future energy needs in the UK. Only 12pc disagree.

* 62pc agree that wind farms are necessary to produce renewable energy ( what they look like is unimportant.

* People are significantly more likely to disagree that wind farms are a blot on the landscape if they have seen them (59pc) compared with those who have not (43pc).

* 70pc would support the development of a wind farm in their area.

Coun Margaret Munn, of Ardrossan, Scotland, said: "The Ardrossan wind farm has been overwhelmingly accepted by local people ( instead of spoiling the landscape, we believe it has been enhanced.

"The turbines are impressive-looking, bring a calming effect to the town and, contrary to the belief that they would be noisy, we have found them to be silent workhorses."

Marcus Rand, chief executive of BWEA said: "Time is running out on climate change and wind power is essential to averting its potential impacts.

"Britain has the best wind resource in Europe. It's everlasting, on our doorstep and ready to use now."

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