Cynthia Goth Is the Answer Blowing in the Wind? Assignment 4 Due June 19, 2013
E= There is considerable debate on whether building a Wind Farm is environmentally feasible for Kansas.
E>A: Will there be increased air currents/turbulence beyond what "natural" wind would be and would it affect the temperature of surrounding area?
The turning of the turbines does have an affect on the surrounding area's humidity and temperature. There would be a slight warming at night and cooling in the day. The earth cools at night and that brings the air temperature down. "But near turbines, turbulence from the blades keeps the air warmer" (http://www.smartplanet.com/) "Large wind farms have an noticeable effect on the local weather. Draughts of air from whirling blades affect the exchange of heat and water vapour, altering the air temperature and humidity in the lower atmosphere." (http://environmentalresearchweb.org/cws/article/news/52737) "Spinning wind turbine rotors generate a lot of turbulence in their wakes like the wake of a boat. This turbulence increases vertical mixing of heat and water vapor that affects the meterological conditions downwind." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_wind_power)
Bats may be injured when entering an area of low air pressure surrounding the turbine. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_wind_power)
E>H: Would the placement of the wind farm affect the nearby available water due to evaporation?
The placement of the wind farm would affect the nearby available water due to evaporation from air circulation. "...could affect crop yields by reducing or increasing heat and moisture losses during droughts or extreme hot or cold periods." (http://environmentalresearchweb.org/cws/article/news/52727)
E>B: Would the placement of a wind farm disrupt local flora and fauna, as well as causing a hardship to local farmers?
The placement of a wind farm would have some disruption of local flora and fauna but would not cause a hardship to local farmers. The disruption would affect birds and bats more than land animals. Research shows that raptors, songbirds and primarily bats are affected by the operation of wind farms. The populations of birds and bats are showing declines due to many factors, leading to concern over possible effects of wind energy. (wwwl.eere.energy.gov/wind/lodfs/birds_and_bats_fact_sheet)
"The vegetation clearing and ground distrubance for wind farms is minimal compared with coal mines and coal-fired power stations. If wind farms are decommissioned, the landscape can be returned to its previous condition" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_wind_power)
Local farmers would see very minimal hardship, if any, to the placement of wind farms nearby as little crop or pasture land is lost. Livestock seem not to be affect by the turbines. If the placement were on their land, their leasing reimbursement adds to their income.
E>A>H>B: Does the increased air current activity increase the evaporation of nearby water thus decreasing the supply for local fauna and flora?
The increased air current activity from wind farms does increase evaporation of nearby water which leads one to believe that there would be less water available for both wildlife and plant/crops. "If turbines are placed on agricultural land.....this could affect crop yields by reducing or increasing heat and moisture losses during droughts or extreme hot or cold periods"...."Even on non-agricultural land the changes in heat and moisture exchange would have ecological effects.." The changes in heat and moisture might be positive or negative. If the turbine created air currents that cooled the surface temperature in the summer, the crops would thrive. On the flip side, same air currents might potentially dry the land and more water via irrigation would be needed. Studies have shown that the findings can be used to help decrease negative effects such as being able to plan for more irrigation or maximize positive effects. (http://environmental researchweb.org/cws/article/news)
Although wind energy has some negative effects, particularly as they affect wildlife such as birds and bats, it appears that the effects can be overcome by the placement of the wind farms. Even how the individual turbines are arranged has an effect on the impact to an area. If current research is used, migratory routes can be established, endangered species located and devices to alert them attached, thus minimizing the negative effects even more. "Environmental assessments are routinely carried out for wind farm proposals, and potential impacts on the local environment (e.g. plants, animals, soils) are evaluated. Turbine locations and operations are often modified as part of the approval process to avoid or minimise impacts on threatened species and their habitats. Any unavoidable impacts can be offset with conservation improvements of similar ecosystems which are unaffected by the proposal." (http://en.wikipedia.org/Environmental_impact_of_wind_power)
Recommendation: After researching extensively, I feel that the placement of wind farms and encouragement of wind energy in Kansas would be beneficial to the state and minimally harmful to the environment.
Rhonda Farwell Is the Answer Blowing in the Wind Assignment 4 ESS Analysis Event - Do the benefits of building a wind farm overcome the negative effects on our environment? E>L Putting in a wind farm will initially cause some disturbance to the soil and surrounding areas in the building of the farm. How long before the land supporting a wind farm returns to its natural state after the building? Most wind farms are built within 9 to 18 months, depending on the size. Once completed and area refurbished, the natural grasses usually grow back within a season, with wildlife to follow. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html) E>H Using wind evergy over fossil fuels will create less chemicals to contaminate our rivers, lakes, streams, and ponds. Do wind farms have any negative effects to the hydrosphere? No negative effects to the hydrosphere could be found. Most traditional methods of fossil fuel mining, extraction, and cooling use a vast amount of water. Wind energy uses vitually none of this precious commodity for the production of energy. (http://windenergydevelopmentllc.com) E>A Using wind evergy may cause the average temperature to change. Do wind generators cause the atmospheric temperature to drop because of increased movement of wind? According to Robert Lee Hotz (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304868004577374091316876420.html) studies have shown that for the first time wind farms of a certain scale may have an effect on local environment. Researchers have tracked a cluster of wind farms in central Texas as they grew from a few dozen to more than 2350 by the year 2011. On average, the nighttime air around the wind farms became about 0.72 degree Celsius warmer over that time. E>B Building a wind farm will create habitat destruction and possibly disrupt migratory flight patterns. Can the area supporting windfarms still support wildlife? Wind farms require only five percent or less of total land for turbines and access roads, allowing previous land uses (ranching, farming, wildlife) to continue while the wind farm is in operation. Animals are not disturbed by the projects, and most animals will graze right up to the turbines. (http://windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html)
E>B Building a wind farm will create noise pollution. Does the noise pollution cause migratory birds and other animals to change their routes? Great care has been taken to protect birds that come in contact with wind farms. Tubular towers, UV reflective paint and underground wires discourage birds from perching in harms way and dramatically decrease bird deaths. Also careful precautions are taken so that turbines are not in the way of migratory paths. Improvements in turbine technology have greatly decreased noise levels of turbines. At site perimenter, the noise of a turbine is less than that of a home's background noise. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html) E>B Building a wind farm will cause disturbance to our native grasses. How long before native grasses return? Most wind farms are built within 9 to 18 months, depending on the size. Once completed and area refurbished, the natural grasses usually grow back within a season, with wildlife to follow. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html) E>B>A Building windfarms will reduce the need for fossil fuels, which will reduce the carbon dioxide released into our atmosphere. Do wind farms effect carbon dioxide emissions? A 1 megawatt wind turbine will annually displace emissions of 1,600 tons of carbon dioxide, 9 tons of sulfur dioxide and 4 tons of nitrous oxide, reducing smog, acid rain and greenhouses gases. It would take 900,000 trees to absorb the same amount of carbon dioxide that a 1MW wind turbine displaces. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.htl) E>B>L Building wind farms will reduce the need for fossil fuels which will reduce the cause of erosion from mining or drilling ores. What are some environmental benefits of wind power? Wind energy system operations do not generate air or water emissions and do not produce hazardous waste. They also do not deplete natural resources such as coal, oil, or gas. They do not cause environmental damage through resource extractions and transportation. (http://www.culturechange.org)
How many years before the cost implemented is less than the cost gained? Although the payback would be site specific based on several variables such as the topographical survey, wind profile, height of hub, turbine lifecycle, energy output, and overall cost (http://windenergydevelopmentllc.com/faq-wind-facts), a windturbine typically takes only a few months (3-8, depending on the average wind speed at its site) (http://culturechange.org) How large is a typical wind farm and how much energy do they produce? An average one megawatt wind turbine will produce enough energy for the annual needs of 350 average households. Turbines may range from 660 kilowatts to over 3 megawatts of capacity. One turbine usually occupies less than 100 square feet, but fenced-in enclosures for additional monitoring equipment, transformers, and other equipment is usually required. A wind farm many have up to thousands of turbines within its setup. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html
Event: Do the benefits of building a wind farm overcome the negative effects on our environment? Recommendation: Although, like all research, some information seemed contradictory, almost all the effects I found concerning building wind farms were positive. There seems to be virtually no air or water pollution keeping our earth as "green" as possible. What noise pollution there was was minimal. The reduction of greenhouses gases was tremendous, and the payback period is very short. My recommendation would be that the benefits far outweigh the negative, and wind farms, provided they are properly placed, should definitely be one of our main resources. Works Cited: http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html http://www.awea.org http://windenergydevelopmentllc.com/faq-wind-facts http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304868004577374091316876420.html http://www.culturechange.org
E= I am considering the building of Wind Farms in rural Kansas. I am wanting to determine if Wind Farms would have a positive or negative effect on our environmental area.
E>A A wind turbine is a huge manmade structure with long arms that is turned by the wind.
Does the turning of turbines have an affect on the natural air flow in the areas that they are located?
Researchers at SUNY New York looked at nearly 10 years of satellite data of areas around wind farms in Texas. Researchers chose Texas because it has four of the world's largest wind farms. the results showed night-time surface temperatures around areas with high volumes of wind turbines were 0.72 degrees C (1.3 degrees F) higher than areas where no wind farms existed. What caused the increase in surface temperature? During the evening, the earth cools and brings the air temperature down. But, near wind turbines, turbulence from the blades keeps the air warmer. (smartplanet.com, April 29, 2012)
E>H The setting of wind turbines are typically located in non-urban settings. Within these settings one would find possibly ponds, streams , natural springs, and rivers.
Does the increase of air movement caused by turning turbines affects the evaporation processes in the area that turbines are located?
According to (environmentalresearchweb.org Mar. 18, 2013) draughts of air from whirling blades affect the exchange of heat and water vapor, altering the air temperature and humidity. So ,yes the evaporation process would have the potential to be altered by wind turbines. However, when researching and placing wind farms, it is encouraged to stay away from areas that are a community that would be an abundant water supplier.
E>L A wind turbine is a very large structure weighing several thousand pounds. There is numerous wind turbines located in close proximity to one another.
Is the land where the Wind Farms are located geologically stable enough to support large structures such as turbines?
From the Wind Energy Development web page of frequently asked questions it states that many states and local municipalities have ordinances governing the erection of tall structures such as wind turbines. That would lead one to believe that studies are being done and if there were problems in a certain area, it would be wise not to build on that site. It was written on the site(Wind Power three E's) that communities and developers must conduct a site characterization and investigation before erecting any turbine and can build only on areas that have undergone remediation.
E>B The wind turbines on a Wind Farm are located in a rural setting like a pasture or grasslands. There would typically be many native animals that would be living at these locations.
Would the natural habitat on the Kansas prairies be affected by the Wind Farms? Would their food source be destroyed?
Birds and bats seem to have the most issues with the Wind Farms. According to (ohsonline.com, 2012, 1,1) government agencies such as EPA and the Bureau of Land Management are studying ways that wind turbines effect wildlife with noise pollution, the disruption caused by flickering lights. However, most of the negative effects of the wind turbines can be mitigated by the proper sittings of individual turbines. It's as simple as sitting up these wind farms in the least populated areas of both people and animals.
E>H>B Less water due to increased evaporation in and around wind turbines may have an effect on the population of wildlife.
How much would wind turbines effect wildlife in and around wind farms because of a decrease in their water supply?
At the website (van.phsics.illinois.edu) the speed of air that is flowing across water will affect how quickly water evaporates. Rates that have an effect on a body of water are: amount of surface area, temperature, and partial pressure of water in the air. However, most of the amounts can be controlled simply by the correct placement and positioning of the turbines and Wind Farms.
E>A>B Wind shifts and turbulence might be created or made greater by turning wind turbines.
Would turbines have an impact on migration routes of certain migratory birds because of turbulence and increased wind?
In the article (Wind Energy America FAQ)there is an issue with bird mortality? Migratory bird "flyways" make a minimal impact on bird population. In fact, overhead high-voltage power lines, and automobiles pose significantly greater threats to birds than do wind turbines. Win Energy America Wind Power takes many steps to ensure that wind projects have minimal impact to birds. For instance, Wind Energy America uses underground wires and tubular towers to make sure that birds see the turbines. Wind Energy America also conducts avian studies so that turbines are not located in the way of migratory paths. Again, proper placement makes all the difference in how success and less harmful a Wind Farm can be.
What would the economic difference be of revenue generated from Wind Farms vs. revenue generated from farmable land be?
According to the article at (Cloud County Revival - Terrain.org) Ray Mason receives close to $50,000 annually for housing turbines on his land. This will little or no investment on his part. Also, from (Wind Energy America's FAQ ) the incentives for individuals and companies that build and operate wind turbines in the form of tax credits are helpful for the wind power industry. Again, placement of the wind turbines is so very important. You would not commit your prime farmland to housing a Wind Farm. So I would think both would be a workable deal to a land owner.
What kind of safety regulation are needed around a Wind Farm?
According to the article (Wind Power's Three Es, Occupational Health and Safety) there are separate OSHA regulations that govern the safety of workers during the construction of the towers (29 CFR 1926) and during maintenance work(29 CRF 1910). Some of the hazards needed to be protected from are: falls, climbing fatigue/ladders, cranes, derricks and hoist safe, respiratory protection, fires, confined spaces, electrical, and machine guarding.
Summary:
Wind Farms in rural Kansas is the earth-friendly energy source that is becoming considered not only in our state , but all over the world. Although there are some negative effects that can be stated and proven about wind energy and how it is made, collected and stored there are just as many positive aspects as well. The point I keep coming back to in my research is the planning, placement, and positioning of the Wind Farms. After careful consideration of all my researching for this project, I feel Wind Farms in rural Kansas would have very little negative impact to our state and native environment.
ESS from research: Event: How does the production of energy from wind compare to natural gas?
E > L What are the effects on the lithosphere of energy production?
The erection of wind turbines can cause soil erosion from the disturbance of existing plants and soil, especially in desert locations. (http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/wind-power7.htm). Habitat loss and deforestation are also a result of soil interruption related to the erection of wind turbines (http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=11935&page=68). The same source estimates that one wind turbine effects a minimum of 1 acre of land.
When drilling is done to produce natural gas studies show significant sediment erosion (file:///home/chronos/user/Downloads/water-04-00944.pdf). Other sources claim that soil erosion, loss of productivity and landslides can be a result of drilling (http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-and-you/affect/natural-gas.html). Drilling each natural gas well has an effect of 0.5 - 0.75 acres of land (http://www.gonzoilinc.com/html/faq.html#10 ).
It appears that both methods affect the soil surface in similar fashion. However, the damage done while erecting wind turbines appears to be physical, while drilling for natural gas involves both physical and chemical effects.
E>L>H While no water is used in energy production with wind, water is required for natural gas drilling and the burning of natural gas to produce energy. Water is used to cool the boilers used to heat the natural gas. erosion, loss of productivity and landslides http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-and-you/affect/natural-gas.html
Water is becoming an increasingly valuable resource, especially in rural farming parts of the nation. In 72 hours of drilling, up to 1 million gallons of water is used. This is a compromise not necessary in wind production,
E>H What are the effects of wind and natural gas energy production on the hydrosphere?
It has been reported to take as little as 420,000 gallons up to 1 million gallons of water to drill a horizontal well. The hydraulic fracturing process may require between 42,000 and 2.49 million gallons of water. This water is mixed with a variety of chemicals that may become part of the ground water. http://www.kwo.org/about_us/BACs/KWIF/rpt_Hydraulic%20Fracturing_KS_Water_FAQ_03082012_final_ki.pdf
E>B How do oil wells and wind farms affect local wildlife populations?
Wind farms pose a danger to birds and bats. In California there are claims that tens of thousands of birds have died over the past 3 decades. In the Appalachia region bat populations are being threatened. And Kansans are concerned with wind farms in the Flint Hills will not only destroy the views of tall grass prairie, but also the wildlife found there. There is hope that as smaller, older turbines are replaced with fewer, taller turbines, the threat to birds and bats will decrease. http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/nation/2005-01-04-windmills-usat_x.htm
Oil and gas production threatens local wildlife by destroying habitat and waterways, reducing wildlife and native plant populations.
Both methods are damaging local wildlife populations.
E>B How do the costs of the two systems compare when purchasing electricity?
The average cost of wind energy production is 4-10 cents per kW in the US. The average cost of energy production from natural gas is 4-5 cents per kW in the US.
A single, 1.8-MW turbine can run up to $1.5 million installed, and that's not including the land, transmission lines and other infrastructure costs associated with a wind-power system. Overall, wind farms cost in the area of $1,000 per kW of capacity, so a wind farm consisting of seven 1.8-MW turbines runs about $12.6 million. The "payback time" for a large wind turbine -- the time it takes to generate enough electricity to make up for the energy consumed building and installing the turbine -- is about three to eight months, according to the American Wind Energy Association. http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/wind-power7.htm It costs 3.9 million dollars to drill a natural gas well. http://www.petrostrategies.org/Learning_Center/drilling_operations.htm
E>B>B How are landowners compensated for the use of their land for oil wells and/or wind farms?
Actual estimates of the amount of reimbursement was difficult, if not impossible, to find. Contracts for both are made on an individual basis, and do not allow for disclosure of the amount determined. Wind farms usually pay land owners an annual fee for the area of land used plus damages incurred during erection of the turbine. Additional money is paid based of the kilowatts produced. Oil production companies generally pay a contracted amount for the right to drill for gas plus damages incurred during drilling. If the well is put into production the landowner is paid a royalty that is based on a percentage of the gas produced by the well. http://www.wcirm.colostate.edu/pub_outreach/CourtneyFinal.pdf
The articles I read led me to believe that landowners are still learning about damages associated with the installation of wind turbines. Production area is lost for the life of the wind turbine. Local farmers give anecdotal evidence of it taking a minimum of 10-11 years for crop production to return to pre drilling levels. This brief research favors wind production.
E>H>L>A>B How much of the energy puzzle can wind energy provide and is it sustainable?
For over a decade, wind energy has been the fastest growing energy technology worldwide, achieving an annual growth rate of over 30 percent. In the United States, the current total installed capacity is approximately 46,900 MW of wind projects. Approximately 440 MW of this installed capacity is located on Federal lands in the western U.S. managed by BLM. Wind energy project development in the Great Plains and the Midwest was particularly strong, tapping into the large wind resource there. Factors contributing to this boom include state legislative requirements for greater use of wind power, the falling cost of wind energy, and the benefits of wind energy in competitive utility markets. Wind energy accounts for 2.3 percent of total U.S. electricity supply. http://www.blm.gov/wo/st/en/prog/energy/wind_energy.html A modern wind turbine is expected to be in production for 20-25. http://www.windmeasurementinternational.com/wind-info/wind-energy_faq.php
Wind energy is a viable piece of the energy puzzle and can take the place of some of the dwindling petroleum resources with minimum impact on the four spheres.
More research is needed but here are some of my initial findings:
Focus Question: Do the environmental impacts of construction and operation of a KS wind farm outweigh the benefits of the clean energy production? Event: Wind farm construction and operation on the prairie
1. What are the pre-construction costs to the environment for the creation of wind farm components (turbines, etc.)? L > B > E < A Raw materials are removed from the earth (L), turned into turbine parts by human workers (B), and used to create towers that create energy from atmospheric currents. (E) Wind energy is actually a form of solar energy. Wind is formed from the heating and cooling of the atmosphere (A), which causes air and air layers to rise and fall and move over each other. This movement results in wind currents. http://www.ecology.com/2011/09/06/fossil-fuels-vs-renewable-energy-resources/
Opinions as to whether wind energy is actually ‘good’ for the environment seem to be mixed and varied: The average windfarm produces 20-25 times more energy during its operational life than was used to construct and install its turbines. An evidence review published in the journal Renewable Energy in 2010, which included data from 119 turbines across 50 sites going back 30 years, concluded that the average windfarm produces 20-25 times more energy during its operational life than was used to construct and install its turbines. It also found that the average "energy payback" of a turbine was 3-6 months. http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/feb/29/turbines-energy
vs.
The wind boon benefits the turbine industry, not the general public. The industry is a terrible waste of resources: Human, physical, financial, temporal and aesthetic. These finite resources could be better spent transforming the physical infrastructure of our society toward sustainable energy production and use, and toward creating jobs that benefit the entire society. http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2009/10/15/reimer
2. How many acres are utilized (on average) for a wind farm?
E > L Still looking for an exact average for KS.
3. What regulations in place to control the building of wind farms? B > E > (All Spheres) Modern United States Wind Energy Policy coincided with the beginning of modern wind industry of the United States, which began in the early 1980s with the arrival of utility-scale wind turbines in California (see Altamont Pass).[1] Since then, the industry has had to endure the financial uncertainties caused by a highly fluctuating tax incentive program. Because these early wind projects were fueled by investment tax credits based on installation rather than performance, they were plagued with issues of low productivity and equipment reliability.[1] Those investment tax credits expired in 1986, which forced investors to focus on improving the reliability and efficiency of their turbines.[1] The 1990s saw rise to a new type of tax credit, the production tax credit, which propelled technological improvements to the wind turbine even further by encouraging investors to focus on electricity output rather than installation.[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Wind_Energy_Policy
4. How long does it take the prairie ecosystem to recover from wind farm construction? E > (All Spheres of Prairie Ecosystem) ‘Although in principle, wind farms have merit in providing a relatively clean alternative energy source, it would be inappropriate to convert areas of the Flint Hills to such an industrial land use. Our Kansas Flint Hills region contains the last remaining large contiguous area of native tallgrass prairie, a productive and diverse grassland ecosystem that once spread throughout the eastern Great Plains region from Texas to the Dakotas. Less than 4% of the original tallgrass prairie remains today, and over 80% of what is left is in the Flint Hills. This tallgrass prairie region is an important natural treasure.’ -Dr. David Hartnett, KSU Professor and Director Konza Prairie Biological Station
5. Where is energy from our local (KS) wind farms being consumed?
E > B Energy produced at Kansas wind farms (E) is primarily being utilized right here in our state by people (B). Wind power accounted for 11.4% of the electricity generated in Kansas during 2012. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_power_in_Kansas 6. What are the effects of the wind turbines on wildlife…specifically migratory birds? E > B (In radiating circles.) Wind farms (E) have definitely affected many species of wildlife (B). It is currently debatable among scientific circles as to exactly how deleterious this effect is or how many ‘ripples’ the effect is having on species that coexist with those adversely affected. The wind industry's goal of providing 20 percent of the nation's electricity by 2030 could lead to a million bird deaths a year or more, according to the American Bird Conservancy. The Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that up to 1 million birds die annually in oil field pits and at waste facilities, but says millions more are killed by cars, cats and collisions with buildings, power lines and radio towers. John Anderson, director of siting policy for the wind energy group, said wind turbines cause a minute fraction of overall bird deaths — less than 3 out of every 100,000 human-related deaths. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/24/new-wind-farm-guidelines_n_1375668.html In addition to birds, bats and even tortoises may be adversely affected by wind turbines. http://www.usgs.gov/ecosystems/energy_wildlife/wind_solar.html http://www.wind-watch.org/faq-wildlife.php
7. Does the wind farm have any effect on the atmosphere or weather patterns?
E > A > B The wind turbines (E) create changes in the atmosphere which affect surface temperatures (A), this would, in turn, affect plants and animals growing in the region (B).
The giant wind turbines cropping up on ridges, shorelines and other windy locales across the world affect more than the wind—they are also changing local temperatures, notes a new study. That's likely because the enormous blades chop up the incoming wind and thereby more thoroughly mix different layers of the atmosphere. According to temperature readings from one of the oldest wind farms in the U.S., near Palm Springs, Calif., the turbines make it warmer at night and cooler during the day, generally speaking. http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=how-wind-turbines-affect-temperature
8. To what degree will wind energy be able to replace fossil fuels? E > L > A Building wind farms will reduce the need to mine fossil fuels (L) as well as cutting back on harmful emissions produced by the burning of fossil fuels in the atmosphere (A)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_energy gives this as the generally accepted philosophy of those in favor of wind power as an alternative energy source. Others are not so optimistic: One of the big challenges with using wind to replace natural gas is that, unlike the steady flame from natural gas, the wind doesn't blow all the time. To make sure enough power is available when the wind isn't blowing, backup generators would be needed, said Paul Fremont, an electric-utility analyst at the investment bank Jefferies & Co. That could mean maintaining those natural gas plants in case of emergency, or implementing even more novel ideas like systems in Europe that use excess wind electricity to pump water uphill when the wind is blowing, then release it through hydro dams when the wind stops. Either way, any type of backup system comes with a price. "It's very costly, and very inefficient for society as a whole," said Fremont. "Policy makers will have to decide if the benefits are worth it." The utility industry also has reservations about using wind on a large scale, again pointing to the fact that it doesn't blow all the time. http://money.cnn.com/2008/07/22/news/economy/pickens_wind/
9. What effect to the turbines have on local human activities (farming, homes, etc.)? E > B Some interesting information on how some people feel a wind farm (E) may affect a person’s health (B).
Wind Turbine Syndrome is the clinical name Dr. Nina Pierpont has given to the constellation of symptoms experienced by many (not all) people who find themselves living near industrial wind turbines. • Sleep disturbance • Headache • Tinnitus (pronounced "tin-uh-tus": ringing or buzzing in the ears) • Ear pressure • Dizziness (a general term that includes vertigo, lightheadedness, sensation of almost fainting, etc.) • Vertigo (clinically, vertigo refers to the sensation of spinning, or the room moving) • Nausea • Visual blurring • Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) • Irritability • Problems with concentration and memory • Panic episodes associated with sensations of internal pulsation or quivering, which arise while awake or asleep http://www.wind-power-problems.org/wind-power-health-problems.html
1) I would like to know how a wind farm site is selected. What factors besides the wind patterns are taken into consideration? Geography of the land is taken into consideration. It is best to place turbines on high hills free from obstructions (although areas with steep slopes are also not ideal). When I think about the site on I-70 this makes sense because it is located in a hilly area. However, it seems like I have also seen wind farms in flat areas. I suppose these places work as well because they are open. Placing wind turbines in town wouldn’t make sense because there are buildings in the way. Turbines can be affected by turbulence in the air. One site I looked at recommended considering the turbine’s height when placing it. They said that you need a distance twice the turbine’s height between obstacles. I presume this would also include other turbines. Are turbines really spaced that far apart. Energy loss in power lines is another thing to consider. Turbines have to be fairly near the place where the energy is being stored or energy will be lost. It is typically beneficial to consider sites near transmission lines in order to decrease the cost of building new lines. Location relative to wildlife preserves and wet lands are considered because the wind energy producers are liable for problems with migratory birds and habitat destruction. Locations near roadways are ideal because building new roads is costly and causes additional disruption to natural environments. Cost of land is another thing considered. Typically the developer buys the land. Local weather data is collected to determine the amount of wind in an area. It must be ideal. Even if everything else is perfect wind must be considered. Factors to consider: location of wind resources, availability of roads and transmission lines, community support, land availability, zoning, noise, and environmental impact.
2) Once a site is selected how long does it take to get the turbines up and going? What all is involved in this process?
One website I looked at estimated a year for the installation of a wind farm another website indicated that it would take about three years for studies and then one year for construction. The construction would start with ripping, hydraulic fracturing, or blasting of bedrock! (I hadn’t thought about this impact on the geosphere or the hydrosphere in the case of the hydraulic fracturing) In addition to having to remove bedrock there is also a need to transport turbines to the wind farm site. They are transported in pieces and are oversized loads. Turbines have a generator mounted on the tower. The tower is assembled in four parts. The blades are also separate parts. The foundation for a wind turbine is set 10 feet into the ground. Approximately 1045 cubic yards of material are removed to make a base for a wind turbine. They try to use material in building the bases that can be demolished once the turbine’s life is over.
3) What environmental studies are done before, during, and after construction of a wind farm?
The National Environmental Policies Act requires that studies are done concerning resources and environmental impacts of potential wind energy sites. There are a lot of federal and state agencies which must grant permission for the construction of a wind farm. As far as the biosphere goes these include…the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service and in State Fish and Game agencies. As far as the hydrosphere goes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers must make sure that there are no violations of the Clean Water Act and that wetlands and water crossings are not impacted.
4) Once the wind farm is built how it is maintained, who maintains it, and what is its expected lifespan?
Wind farms have an expected lifespan of twenty years. This seems really short to me.
5) Where does the energy produced go? Who uses it and how much does it decrease the dependency on traditional energy sources?
Power companies buy the energy.
6) What is the impact of wind farms on communities? Do they really create jobs? Do they benefit farmers and ranchers? Do they benefit the local economy? Do they decrease energy costs?
During the construction of wind farms there is typically a short term increase in construction related jobs. Additionally, some jobs involved in maintaining wind farms will be created. These jobs will be around for the life of the wind farm. One resource estimated that this time frame to be about twenty years. Wind turbines require the use of energy from traditional power plants to operate. Traditional power plants use their own energy. One site suggested that wind farms might use almost as much energy as they produce. Wind energy costs are dropping and rates can be locked in for 20-30 years. (which implies to me that that aren’t really dropping)
By now I'm sure you are well on your way to completing this module. In a regular classroom setting, I would definitely have students work in groups of between 2 and 4. I hope you've been able to glean some information off each other's research to gain a better understanding of wind energy. I would have students check resources before using them, and I hope you do the same! Thank you for your hard work and insight!
In researching these questions, I realized how poorly written, or at least at difficult the question was written to pin down one single answer. There are too many facets for several of them so, ultimately, the question cannot be answered. I have answered the questions the best I can based on the information I have researched. With this researching, however, I found a couple sites in which to reference that I think could help any number of individuals that are interested in good information. The first one, http://www.sdeia.com/PDF/WindPowerHandbook08.pdf is published by South Dakota governmental entities for the prospective investor.
What are the specifications/guidelines for a site of a wind farm and who conducts it then ultimately approves the location? This was a very interesting question to research and a very difficult question to have narrow down to a simple answer. There are too many factors in this question because it is two-fold. The US Fish and Wildlife Service has set guidelines for site development effective this past month. They have set out 5 tiers: preliminary site evaluation; site characterization; field studies on wildlife/habitat and predicting project impacts; post-construction studies to study impacts; other post-construction impacts They have a great video available at http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/ that breaks down each tier and is explained by a professional who has knowledge in that particular field. Regarding the site location a wind study is conducted for a minimum of one year, but quite often using a two-year wind study for more accurate data. The data will tell investors roughly how much wind energy could potentially be created. Once this is determined the land owner(s) will then determine if the area is a viable location for the investment.
Are there minimums and maximums regarding numbers of turbines for personal ownership, or is it simply how much you can afford to invest? Way too big of a question. There does not appear to be any minimum or maximum needed for tax breaks. According to http://www.dsireusa.org/summarytables/finre.cfm, it does not appear there are many incentives to build a wind farm given by the state of Kansas compared to other states. The Financial Incentives for Renewable Energy chart breaks down moneys into categories of personal tax, corporate tax, sales tax, property tax, rebates, grants, loans, industry support, bonds, and performance based incentives. There are rebates, property tax incentive, and an incentive for industry support, but not much else from the state. On the federal side an investor can get cuts on personal and corporate taxes, grants, loans and industry support.
What is the life expectancy of the equipment used to building the turbines? According to http://greenanswers.com/question/how-long-do-wind-turbines-last/, turbines last 120,000 hours generally over a 20 year timespan, which they compare to a vehicle that will generally last between 4-6,000 hours. How tall are they? http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20101124084804AAboSNq According to this website, the “height of a small turbine tower will be much lower than the larger wind farm turbines.” It goes on to explain that the height of area buildings and such will be added to a measure of 30 feet to attain the maximum efficiency of the turbine. This of course will be a rough estimate because all situations/environments are different. The average height of a small turbine is 80 feet.
What is the upfront cost of a turbine without governmental assistance? The average payback on a turbine depends on several factors. This almost seemed to be a somewhat elusive question to try and answer. According to the website, http://www.windenergyfoundation.org/wind-at-work/wind-consumers/wind-power-your-home , an average turbine that can be used to power a house will probably cost about $30,000, but the website does mention costs can be one-third of that, or as much as almost three times that amount. Very small turbines can cost between $4,000 and $9,000. http://www.windenergyfoundation.org/wind-at-work/wind-consumers/wind-power-your-home
Can any available government incentives be granted multiple years in a row or can you only apply for the assistance once (like the energy credit for your house)? Still looking for this answer. How do you sell energy to the grid? Originally this question said “resell” but after taking the workshop and doing a little research one does not resell to the grid, they just sell to grid instead. If a turbine is on line with the grid, the energy can automatically be used by the energy company and none is utilized by the investor, or the investor can have a grid backup.
Is somebody working on a way to store energy? General Energy has a neat website that explains the batteries developed for their equipment that are integrated into the design of the turbine. This eliminates bulky ground stations and the high costs associated with it. GE Energy further explains the concept of predictable power. The ability to store the energy in battery form allows the grid to know when to expect highs and lows of availability. This will result in less energy waste and less reliance on coal powered energy. http://www.ge-energy.com/wind/battery In 2009, XCelEnergy tried something new with a MinWind Farm in Minnesota. They purchased a sodium-sulfur battery storage facility. They had several reasons for wanting to try a store facility of this magnitude, with the most prominent possibly being the need to update and upgrade the current Smart Grid to account for more reliance of green energy. http://www.xcelenergy.com/staticfiles/xe/Corporate/Environment/wind-to-battery%20fact%20sheet.pdf
Can a turbine go too fast resulting in damage to the equipment, ultimately resulting in damage to the surrounding hydrosphere, lithosphere, and/or biosphere? Yes, it can and the results are often devastating to the equipment and surroundings. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration perform tests to see variability of the “invisible” wake that forms behind turbines resulting in possible damage, primarily turbines that are downwind from the turbines being tested. Several videos are available on the internet that might make an investor cringe. http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2011/20110426_windwakes.html . Similar tests have been conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy12osti/53567.pdf.
Summary With the basic investigating this project has prompted there does not appear to be any reason to not put in a wind turbine/wind farm in our area of central Kansas. The majority of questions an investor might have can be answered with access to the internet. There are some questions that will need to be answered with more information including contacting someone to conduct a wind study to determine placement, as well as the feasibility of contacting land owners that surround us to determine installing a small scale farm to assist many versus one. The federal government is attempting to make alternative energies more accessible by offering incentives and technology is certainly lending a hand in bringing down the costs and streamlining the process. I think until people become more accepting to the natural changes of the ecosystem there will be those that protest turbines.
Cynthia Goth
ReplyDeleteIs the Answer Blowing in the Wind?
Assignment 4 Due June 19, 2013
E= There is considerable debate on whether building a Wind Farm is
environmentally feasible for Kansas.
E>A: Will there be increased air currents/turbulence beyond what "natural"
wind would be and would it affect the temperature of surrounding area?
The turning of the turbines does have an affect on the surrounding
area's humidity and temperature. There would be a slight warming at night
and cooling in the day. The earth cools at night and that brings the air
temperature down. "But near turbines, turbulence from the blades keeps the
air warmer" (http://www.smartplanet.com/) "Large wind farms have an
noticeable effect on the local weather. Draughts of air from whirling blades
affect the exchange of heat and water vapour, altering the air temperature
and humidity in the lower atmosphere."
(http://environmentalresearchweb.org/cws/article/news/52737) "Spinning wind
turbine rotors generate a lot of turbulence in their wakes like the wake of a
boat. This turbulence increases vertical mixing of heat and water vapor that
affects the meterological conditions downwind."
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_wind_power)
Bats may be injured when entering an area of low air pressure surrounding the
turbine. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_wind_power)
E>H: Would the placement of the wind farm affect the nearby available water
ReplyDeletedue to evaporation?
The placement of the wind farm would affect the nearby available water
due to evaporation from air circulation. "...could affect crop yields by
reducing or increasing heat and moisture losses during droughts or extreme
hot or cold periods."
(http://environmentalresearchweb.org/cws/article/news/52727)
E>B: Would the placement of a wind farm disrupt local flora and fauna, as
well as causing a hardship to local farmers?
The placement of a wind farm would have some disruption of local flora
and fauna but would not cause a hardship to local farmers. The disruption
would affect birds and bats more than land animals. Research shows that
raptors, songbirds and primarily bats are affected by the operation of wind
farms. The populations of birds and bats are showing declines due to many
factors, leading to concern over possible effects of wind energy.
(wwwl.eere.energy.gov/wind/lodfs/birds_and_bats_fact_sheet)
"The vegetation clearing and ground distrubance for wind farms is minimal
compared with coal mines and coal-fired power stations. If wind farms are
decommissioned, the landscape can be returned to its previous condition"
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_wind_power)
Local farmers would see very minimal hardship, if any, to the placement of
wind farms nearby as little crop or pasture land is lost. Livestock seem not
to be affect by the turbines. If the placement were on their land, their
leasing reimbursement adds to their income.
E>A>H>B: Does the increased air current activity increase the evaporation of
nearby water thus decreasing the supply for local fauna and flora?
The increased air current activity from wind farms does increase
evaporation of nearby water which leads one to believe that there would be
less water available for both wildlife and plant/crops. "If turbines are
placed on agricultural land.....this could affect crop yields by reducing or
increasing heat and moisture losses during droughts or extreme hot or cold
periods"...."Even on non-agricultural land the changes in heat and moisture
exchange would have ecological effects.." The changes in heat and moisture
might be positive or negative. If the turbine created air currents that
cooled the surface temperature in the summer, the crops would thrive. On the
flip side, same air currents might potentially dry the land and more water
via irrigation would be needed. Studies have shown that the findings can be
used to help decrease negative effects such as being able to plan for more
irrigation or maximize positive effects. (http://environmental
researchweb.org/cws/article/news)
Summary:
ReplyDeleteAlthough wind energy has some negative effects, particularly as they
affect wildlife such as birds and bats, it appears that the effects can be
overcome by the placement of the wind farms. Even how the individual turbines
are arranged has an effect on the impact to an area. If current research is
used, migratory routes can be established, endangered species located and
devices to alert them attached, thus minimizing the negative effects even
more. "Environmental assessments are routinely carried out for wind farm
proposals, and potential impacts on the local environment (e.g. plants,
animals, soils) are evaluated. Turbine locations and operations are often
modified as part of the approval process to avoid or minimise impacts on
threatened species and their habitats. Any unavoidable impacts can be offset
with conservation improvements of similar ecosystems which are unaffected by
the proposal." (http://en.wikipedia.org/Environmental_impact_of_wind_power)
Recommendation: After researching extensively, I feel that the placement of
wind farms and encouragement of wind energy in Kansas would be beneficial to
the state and minimally harmful to the environment.
Resources:
http://www.about-alternative-energy.com/wind-turbines.html
wwwl.eere.energy.gov/wind/odfs/birds_amd_bats_facts_sheet
http://environmentalresearchweb.org/cws/article/news/52737
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_wind_power
http://www.ehow.com/print/about_4795463_advantages-disadvantages-win...
http://www.smartplanet.como/blog/smart-takes/do-wind-farms-have-a-negative-
effect-on-th......
http://www.kansas.com/201304/11/2756117/kansas-moves-into-top-10-states.html
http://www.about-alternative-energy.com/wind-turbines.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_power_in_Kansas
Wind Turbine Guidelines Advisory Committee Recommendations:Guidelines, March
26, 2009
--
Rhonda Farwell
ReplyDeleteIs the Answer Blowing in the Wind
Assignment 4
ESS Analysis
Event - Do the benefits of building a wind farm overcome the negative effects on our environment?
E>L
Putting in a wind farm will initially cause some disturbance to the soil and surrounding areas in the building of the farm.
How long before the land supporting a wind farm returns to its natural state after the building?
Most wind farms are built within 9 to 18 months, depending on the size. Once completed and area refurbished, the natural grasses usually grow back within a season, with wildlife to follow. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html)
E>H
Using wind evergy over fossil fuels will create less chemicals to contaminate our rivers, lakes, streams, and ponds.
Do wind farms have any negative effects to the hydrosphere?
No negative effects to the hydrosphere could be found. Most traditional methods of fossil fuel mining, extraction, and cooling use a vast amount of water. Wind energy uses vitually none of this precious commodity for the production of energy. (http://windenergydevelopmentllc.com)
E>A
Using wind evergy may cause the average temperature to change.
Do wind generators cause the atmospheric temperature to drop because of increased movement of wind?
According to Robert Lee Hotz (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304868004577374091316876420.html) studies have shown that for the first time wind farms of a certain scale may have an effect on local environment. Researchers have tracked a cluster of wind farms in central Texas as they grew from a few dozen to more than 2350 by the year 2011. On average, the nighttime air around the wind farms became about 0.72 degree Celsius warmer over that time.
E>B
Building a wind farm will create habitat destruction and possibly disrupt migratory flight patterns.
Can the area supporting windfarms still support wildlife?
Wind farms require only five percent or less of total land for turbines and access roads, allowing previous land uses (ranching, farming, wildlife) to continue while the wind farm is in operation. Animals are not disturbed by the projects, and most animals will graze right up to the turbines. (http://windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html)
E>B
ReplyDeleteBuilding a wind farm will create noise pollution.
Does the noise pollution cause migratory birds and other animals to change their routes?
Great care has been taken to protect birds that come in contact with wind farms. Tubular towers, UV reflective paint and underground wires discourage birds from perching in harms way and dramatically decrease bird deaths. Also careful precautions are taken so that turbines are not in the way of migratory paths. Improvements in turbine technology have greatly decreased noise levels of turbines. At site perimenter, the noise of a turbine is less than that of a home's background noise. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html)
E>B
Building a wind farm will cause disturbance to our native grasses.
How long before native grasses return?
Most wind farms are built within 9 to 18 months, depending on the size. Once completed and area refurbished, the natural grasses usually grow back within a season, with wildlife to follow. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html)
E>B>A
Building windfarms will reduce the need for fossil fuels, which will reduce the carbon dioxide released into our atmosphere.
Do wind farms effect carbon dioxide emissions?
A 1 megawatt wind turbine will annually displace emissions of 1,600 tons of carbon dioxide, 9 tons of sulfur dioxide and 4 tons of nitrous oxide, reducing smog, acid rain and greenhouses gases. It would take 900,000 trees to absorb the same amount of carbon dioxide that a 1MW wind turbine displaces. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.htl)
E>B>L
Building wind farms will reduce the need for fossil fuels which will reduce the cause of erosion from mining or drilling ores.
What are some environmental benefits of wind power?
Wind energy system operations do not generate air or water emissions and do not produce hazardous waste. They also do not deplete natural resources such as coal, oil, or gas. They do not cause environmental damage through resource extractions and transportation. (http://www.culturechange.org)
How many years before the cost implemented is less than the cost gained?
Although the payback would be site specific based on several variables such as the topographical survey, wind profile, height of hub, turbine lifecycle, energy output, and overall cost (http://windenergydevelopmentllc.com/faq-wind-facts), a windturbine typically takes only a few months (3-8, depending on the average wind speed at its site) (http://culturechange.org)
How large is a typical wind farm and how much energy do they produce?
An average one megawatt wind turbine will produce enough energy for the annual needs of 350 average households. Turbines may range from 660 kilowatts to over 3 megawatts of capacity. One turbine usually occupies less than 100 square feet, but fenced-in enclosures for additional monitoring equipment, transformers, and other equipment is usually required. A wind farm many have up to thousands of turbines within its setup. (http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html
Event: Do the benefits of building a wind farm overcome the negative effects on our environment?
Recommendation:
Although, like all research, some information seemed contradictory, almost all the effects I found concerning building wind farms were positive. There seems to be virtually no air or water pollution keeping our earth as "green" as possible. What noise pollution there was was minimal. The reduction of greenhouses gases was tremendous, and the payback period is very short. My recommendation would be that the benefits far outweigh the negative, and wind farms, provided they are properly placed, should definitely be one of our main resources.
Works Cited:
http://www.windenergyamerica.com/faqs.html
http://www.awea.org
http://windenergydevelopmentllc.com/faq-wind-facts
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304868004577374091316876420.html
http://www.culturechange.org
E= I am considering the building of Wind Farms in rural Kansas. I am wanting to determine if Wind Farms would have a positive or negative effect on our environmental area.
ReplyDeleteE>A A wind turbine is a huge manmade structure with long arms that is turned by the wind.
Does the turning of turbines have an affect on the natural air flow in the areas that they are located?
Researchers at SUNY New York looked at nearly 10 years of satellite data of areas around wind farms in Texas. Researchers chose Texas because it has four of the world's largest wind farms. the results showed night-time surface temperatures around areas with high volumes of wind turbines were 0.72 degrees C (1.3 degrees F) higher than areas where no wind farms existed. What caused the increase in surface temperature? During the evening, the earth cools and brings the air temperature down. But, near wind turbines, turbulence from the blades keeps the air warmer. (smartplanet.com, April 29, 2012)
E>H The setting of wind turbines are typically located in non-urban settings. Within these settings one would find possibly ponds, streams , natural springs, and rivers.
Does the increase of air movement caused by turning turbines affects the evaporation processes in the area that turbines are located?
According to (environmentalresearchweb.org Mar. 18, 2013) draughts of air from whirling blades affect the exchange of heat and water vapor, altering the air temperature and humidity. So ,yes the evaporation process would have the potential to be altered by wind turbines. However, when researching and placing wind farms, it is encouraged to stay away from areas that are a community that would be an abundant water supplier.
E>L A wind turbine is a very large structure weighing several thousand pounds. There is numerous wind turbines located in close proximity to one another.
Is the land where the Wind Farms are located geologically stable enough to support large structures such as turbines?
From the Wind Energy Development web page of frequently asked questions it states that many states and local municipalities have ordinances governing the erection of tall structures such as wind turbines. That would lead one to believe that studies are being done and if there were problems in a certain area, it would be wise not to build on that site. It was written on the site(Wind Power three E's) that communities and developers must conduct a site characterization and investigation before erecting any turbine and can build only on areas that have undergone remediation.
E>B The wind turbines on a Wind Farm are located in a rural setting like a pasture or grasslands. There would typically be many native animals that would be living at these locations.
ReplyDeleteWould the natural habitat on the Kansas prairies be affected by the Wind Farms? Would their food source be destroyed?
Birds and bats seem to have the most issues with the Wind Farms. According to (ohsonline.com, 2012, 1,1) government agencies such as EPA and the Bureau of Land Management are studying ways that wind turbines effect wildlife with noise pollution, the disruption caused by flickering lights. However, most of the negative effects of the wind turbines can be mitigated by the proper sittings of individual turbines. It's as simple as sitting up these wind farms in the least populated areas of both people and animals.
E>H>B Less water due to increased evaporation in and around wind turbines may have an effect on the population of wildlife.
How much would wind turbines effect wildlife in and around wind farms because of a decrease in their water supply?
At the website (van.phsics.illinois.edu) the speed of air that is flowing across water will affect how quickly water evaporates. Rates that have an effect on a body of water are: amount of surface area, temperature, and partial pressure of water in the air. However, most of the amounts can be controlled simply by the correct placement and positioning of the turbines and Wind Farms.
E>A>B Wind shifts and turbulence might be created or made greater by turning wind turbines.
Would turbines have an impact on migration routes of certain migratory birds because of turbulence and increased wind?
In the article (Wind Energy America FAQ)there is an issue with bird mortality? Migratory bird "flyways" make a minimal impact on bird population. In fact, overhead high-voltage power lines, and automobiles pose significantly greater threats to birds than do wind turbines. Win Energy America Wind Power takes many steps to ensure that wind projects have minimal impact to birds. For instance, Wind Energy America uses underground wires and tubular towers to make sure that birds see the turbines. Wind Energy America also conducts avian studies so that turbines are not located in the way of migratory paths. Again, proper placement makes all the difference in how success and less harmful a Wind Farm can be.
What would the economic difference be of revenue generated from Wind Farms vs. revenue generated from farmable land be?
According to the article at (Cloud County Revival - Terrain.org) Ray Mason receives close to $50,000 annually for housing turbines on his land. This will little or no investment on his part. Also, from (Wind Energy America's FAQ ) the incentives for individuals and companies that build and operate wind turbines in the form of tax credits are helpful for the wind power industry. Again, placement of the wind turbines is so very important. You would not commit your prime farmland to housing a Wind Farm. So I would think both would be a workable deal to a land owner.
What kind of safety regulation are needed around a Wind Farm?
According to the article (Wind Power's Three Es, Occupational Health and Safety) there are separate OSHA regulations that govern the safety of workers during the construction of the towers (29 CFR 1926) and during maintenance work(29 CRF 1910). Some of the hazards needed to be protected from are: falls, climbing fatigue/ladders, cranes, derricks and hoist safe, respiratory protection, fires, confined spaces, electrical, and machine guarding.
ReplyDeleteSummary:
Wind Farms in rural Kansas is the earth-friendly energy source that is becoming considered not only in our state , but all over the world. Although there are some negative effects that can be stated and proven about wind energy and how it is made, collected and stored there are just as many positive aspects as well. The point I keep coming back to in my research is the planning, placement, and positioning of the Wind Farms. After careful consideration of all my researching for this project, I feel Wind Farms in rural Kansas would have very little negative impact to our state and native environment.
Resources:
http://www.windenergyamerica.com
http://windenergydevelopmentlle.com/faq-wind-facts
http://ohsonline.com/article/2013/01/01wind-power.aspx
http;//environmentalresearchweb.org/cws/article/news/52737
http://terrain.org/2012/nonfiction/cloud-county-revival/
Yippeeeeee!! Success! Thanks Jenny! ~ Cynthia, Kathy and Rhonda
ReplyDeleteI'm glad I could help you out! These are looking good, too!
ReplyDeleteESS from research:
ReplyDeleteEvent: How does the production of energy from wind compare to natural gas?
E > L What are the effects on the lithosphere of energy production?
The erection of wind turbines can cause soil erosion from the disturbance of existing plants and soil, especially in desert locations. (http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/wind-power7.htm). Habitat loss and deforestation are also a result of soil interruption related to the erection of wind turbines (http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=11935&page=68). The same source estimates that one wind turbine effects a minimum of 1 acre of land.
When drilling is done to produce natural gas studies show significant sediment erosion (file:///home/chronos/user/Downloads/water-04-00944.pdf). Other sources claim that soil erosion, loss of productivity and landslides can be a result of drilling
(http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-and-you/affect/natural-gas.html). Drilling each natural gas well has an effect of 0.5 - 0.75 acres of land (http://www.gonzoilinc.com/html/faq.html#10
).
It appears that both methods affect the soil surface in similar fashion. However, the damage done while erecting wind turbines appears to be physical, while drilling for natural gas involves both physical and chemical effects.
E>L>H While no water is used in energy production with wind, water is required for natural gas drilling and the burning of natural gas to produce energy. Water is used to cool the boilers used to heat the natural gas. erosion, loss of productivity and landslides
http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-and-you/affect/natural-gas.html
Water is becoming an increasingly valuable resource, especially in rural farming parts of the nation. In 72 hours of drilling, up to 1 million gallons of water is used. This is a compromise not necessary in wind production,
E>H What are the effects of wind and natural gas energy production on the hydrosphere?
It has been reported to take as little as 420,000 gallons up to 1 million gallons of water to drill a
horizontal well.
The hydraulic fracturing process may require between 42,000 and 2.49 million gallons of water. This water is mixed with a variety of chemicals that may become part of the ground water.
http://www.kwo.org/about_us/BACs/KWIF/rpt_Hydraulic%20Fracturing_KS_Water_FAQ_03082012_final_ki.pdf
E>B How do oil wells and wind farms affect local wildlife populations?
Wind farms pose a danger to birds and bats. In California there are claims that tens of thousands of birds have died over the past 3 decades. In the Appalachia region bat populations are being threatened. And Kansans are concerned with wind farms in the Flint Hills will not only destroy the views of tall grass prairie, but also the wildlife found there. There is hope that as smaller, older turbines are replaced with fewer, taller turbines, the threat to birds and bats will decrease. http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/nation/2005-01-04-windmills-usat_x.htm
Oil and gas production threatens local wildlife by destroying habitat and waterways, reducing wildlife and native plant populations.
Both methods are damaging local wildlife populations.
E>B How do the costs of the two systems compare when purchasing electricity?
ReplyDeleteThe average cost of wind energy production is 4-10 cents per kW in the US.
The average cost of energy production from natural gas is 4-5 cents per kW in the US.
A single, 1.8-MW turbine can run up to $1.5 million installed, and that's not including the land, transmission lines and other infrastructure costs associated with a wind-power system. Overall, wind farms cost in the area of $1,000 per kW of capacity, so a wind farm consisting of seven 1.8-MW turbines runs about $12.6 million. The "payback time" for a large wind turbine -- the time it takes to generate enough electricity to make up for the energy consumed building and installing the turbine -- is about three to eight months, according to the American Wind Energy Association.
http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/wind-power7.htm
It costs 3.9 million dollars to drill a natural gas well.
http://www.petrostrategies.org/Learning_Center/drilling_operations.htm
E>B>B How are landowners compensated for the use of their land for oil wells and/or wind farms?
Actual estimates of the amount of reimbursement was difficult, if not impossible, to find. Contracts for both are made on an individual basis, and do not allow for disclosure of the amount determined. Wind farms usually pay land owners an annual fee for the area of land used plus damages incurred during erection of the turbine. Additional money is paid based of the kilowatts produced.
Oil production companies generally pay a contracted amount for the right to drill for gas plus damages incurred during drilling. If the well is put into production the landowner is paid a royalty that is based on a percentage of the gas produced by the well. http://www.wcirm.colostate.edu/pub_outreach/CourtneyFinal.pdf
The articles I read led me to believe that landowners are still learning about damages associated with the installation of wind turbines. Production area is lost for the life of the wind turbine. Local farmers give anecdotal evidence of it taking a minimum of 10-11 years for crop production to return to pre drilling levels. This brief research favors wind production.
E>H>L>A>B How much of the energy puzzle can wind energy provide and is it sustainable?
For over a decade, wind energy has been the fastest growing energy technology worldwide, achieving an annual growth rate of over 30 percent. In the United States, the current total installed capacity is approximately 46,900 MW of wind projects. Approximately 440 MW of this installed capacity is located on Federal lands in the western U.S. managed by BLM. Wind energy project development in the Great Plains and the Midwest was particularly strong, tapping into the large wind resource there. Factors contributing to this boom include state legislative requirements for greater use of wind power, the falling cost of wind energy, and the benefits of wind energy in competitive utility markets. Wind energy accounts for 2.3 percent of total U.S. electricity supply.
http://www.blm.gov/wo/st/en/prog/energy/wind_energy.html
A modern wind turbine is expected to be in production for 20-25. http://www.windmeasurementinternational.com/wind-info/wind-energy_faq.php
Wind energy is a viable piece of the energy puzzle and can take the place of some of the dwindling petroleum resources with minimum impact on the four spheres.
More research is needed but here are some of my initial findings:
ReplyDeleteFocus Question: Do the environmental impacts of construction and operation of a KS wind farm outweigh the benefits of the clean energy production?
Event: Wind farm construction and operation on the prairie
1. What are the pre-construction costs to the environment for the creation of wind farm components (turbines, etc.)?
L > B > E < A Raw materials are removed from the earth (L), turned into turbine parts by human workers (B), and used to create towers that create energy from atmospheric currents. (E) Wind energy is actually a form of solar energy. Wind is formed from the heating and cooling of the atmosphere (A), which causes air and air layers to rise and fall and move over each other. This movement results in wind currents.
http://www.ecology.com/2011/09/06/fossil-fuels-vs-renewable-energy-resources/
Opinions as to whether wind energy is actually ‘good’ for the environment seem to be mixed and varied:
The average windfarm produces 20-25 times more energy during its operational life than was used to construct and install its turbines.
An evidence review published in the journal Renewable Energy in 2010, which included data from 119 turbines across 50 sites going back 30 years, concluded that the average windfarm produces 20-25 times more energy during its operational life than was used to construct and install its turbines. It also found that the average "energy payback" of a turbine was 3-6 months.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/feb/29/turbines-energy
vs.
The wind boon benefits the turbine industry, not the general public. The industry is a terrible waste of resources: Human, physical, financial, temporal and aesthetic. These finite resources could be better spent transforming the physical infrastructure of our society toward sustainable energy production and use, and toward creating jobs that benefit the entire society.
http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2009/10/15/reimer
2. How many acres are utilized (on average) for a wind farm?
E > L Still looking for an exact average for KS.
3. What regulations in place to control the building of wind farms?
B > E > (All Spheres)
Modern United States Wind Energy Policy coincided with the beginning of modern wind industry of the United States, which began in the early 1980s with the arrival of utility-scale wind turbines in California (see Altamont Pass).[1] Since then, the industry has had to endure the financial uncertainties caused by a highly fluctuating tax incentive program. Because these early wind projects were fueled by investment tax credits based on installation rather than performance, they were plagued with issues of low productivity and equipment reliability.[1] Those investment tax credits expired in 1986, which forced investors to focus on improving the reliability and efficiency of their turbines.[1] The 1990s saw rise to a new type of tax credit, the production tax credit, which propelled technological improvements to the wind turbine even further by encouraging investors to focus on electricity output rather than installation.[2]
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Wind_Energy_Policy
4. How long does it take the prairie ecosystem to recover from wind farm construction?
E > (All Spheres of Prairie Ecosystem)
‘Although in principle, wind farms have merit in providing a relatively clean alternative energy source, it would be inappropriate to convert areas of the Flint Hills to such an industrial land use. Our Kansas Flint Hills region contains the last remaining large contiguous area of native tallgrass prairie, a productive and diverse grassland ecosystem that once spread throughout the eastern Great Plains region from Texas to the Dakotas. Less than 4% of the original tallgrass prairie remains today, and over 80% of what is left is in the Flint Hills. This tallgrass prairie region is an important natural treasure.’
-Dr. David Hartnett, KSU Professor and Director Konza Prairie Biological Station
5. Where is energy from our local (KS) wind farms being consumed?
ReplyDeleteE > B Energy produced at Kansas wind farms (E) is primarily being utilized right here in our state by people (B).
Wind power accounted for 11.4% of the electricity generated in Kansas during 2012.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_power_in_Kansas
6. What are the effects of the wind turbines on wildlife…specifically migratory birds?
E > B (In radiating circles.) Wind farms (E) have definitely affected many species of wildlife (B). It is currently debatable among scientific circles as to exactly how deleterious this effect is or how many ‘ripples’ the effect is having on species that coexist with those adversely affected.
The wind industry's goal of providing 20 percent of the nation's electricity by 2030 could lead to a million bird deaths a year or more, according to the American Bird Conservancy.
The Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that up to 1 million birds die annually in oil field pits and at waste facilities, but says millions more are killed by cars, cats and collisions with buildings, power lines and radio towers.
John Anderson, director of siting policy for the wind energy group, said wind turbines cause a minute fraction of overall bird deaths — less than 3 out of every 100,000 human-related deaths.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/24/new-wind-farm-guidelines_n_1375668.html
In addition to birds, bats and even tortoises may be adversely affected by wind turbines.
http://www.usgs.gov/ecosystems/energy_wildlife/wind_solar.html
http://www.wind-watch.org/faq-wildlife.php
7. Does the wind farm have any effect on the atmosphere or weather patterns?
ReplyDeleteE > A > B The wind turbines (E) create changes in the atmosphere which affect surface temperatures (A), this would, in turn, affect plants and animals growing in the region (B).
The giant wind turbines cropping up on ridges, shorelines and other windy locales across the world affect more than the wind—they are also changing local temperatures, notes a new study. That's likely because the enormous blades chop up the incoming wind and thereby more thoroughly mix different layers of the atmosphere. According to temperature readings from one of the oldest wind farms in the U.S., near Palm Springs, Calif., the turbines make it warmer at night and cooler during the day, generally speaking.
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=how-wind-turbines-affect-temperature
8. To what degree will wind energy be able to replace fossil fuels?
E > L > A Building wind farms will reduce the need to mine fossil fuels (L) as well as cutting back on harmful emissions produced by the burning of fossil fuels in the atmosphere (A)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_energy gives this as the generally accepted philosophy of those in favor of wind power as an alternative energy source. Others are not so optimistic:
One of the big challenges with using wind to replace natural gas is that, unlike the steady flame from natural gas, the wind doesn't blow all the time.
To make sure enough power is available when the wind isn't blowing, backup generators would be needed, said Paul Fremont, an electric-utility analyst at the investment bank Jefferies & Co.
That could mean maintaining those natural gas plants in case of emergency, or implementing even more novel ideas like systems in Europe that use excess wind electricity to pump water uphill when the wind is blowing, then release it through hydro dams when the wind stops.
Either way, any type of backup system comes with a price.
"It's very costly, and very inefficient for society as a whole," said Fremont. "Policy makers will have to decide if the benefits are worth it."
The utility industry also has reservations about using wind on a large scale, again pointing to the fact that it doesn't blow all the time.
http://money.cnn.com/2008/07/22/news/economy/pickens_wind/
9. What effect to the turbines have on local human activities (farming, homes, etc.)?
E > B Some interesting information on how some people feel a wind farm (E) may affect a person’s health (B).
Wind Turbine Syndrome is the clinical name Dr. Nina Pierpont has given to the constellation of symptoms experienced by many (not all) people who find themselves living near industrial wind turbines.
• Sleep disturbance
• Headache
• Tinnitus (pronounced "tin-uh-tus": ringing or buzzing in the ears)
• Ear pressure
• Dizziness (a general term that includes vertigo, lightheadedness, sensation of almost fainting, etc.)
• Vertigo (clinically, vertigo refers to the sensation of spinning, or the room moving)
• Nausea
• Visual blurring
• Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
• Irritability
• Problems with concentration and memory
• Panic episodes associated with sensations of internal pulsation or quivering, which arise while awake or asleep
http://www.wind-power-problems.org/wind-power-health-problems.html
1) I would like to know how a wind farm site is selected. What factors besides the wind patterns are taken into consideration?
ReplyDeleteGeography of the land is taken into consideration. It is best to place turbines on high hills free from obstructions (although areas with steep slopes are also not ideal). When I think about the site on I-70 this makes sense because it is located in a hilly area. However, it seems like I have also seen wind farms in flat areas. I suppose these places work as well because they are open. Placing wind turbines in town wouldn’t make sense because there are buildings in the way.
Turbines can be affected by turbulence in the air. One site I looked at recommended considering the turbine’s height when placing it. They said that you need a distance twice the turbine’s height between obstacles. I presume this would also include other turbines. Are turbines really spaced that far apart.
Energy loss in power lines is another thing to consider. Turbines have to be fairly near the place where the energy is being stored or energy will be lost. It is typically beneficial to consider sites near transmission lines in order to decrease the cost of building new lines.
Location relative to wildlife preserves and wet lands are considered because the wind energy producers are liable for problems with migratory birds and habitat destruction.
Locations near roadways are ideal because building new roads is costly and causes additional disruption to natural environments.
Cost of land is another thing considered. Typically the developer buys the land.
Local weather data is collected to determine the amount of wind in an area. It must be ideal. Even if everything else is perfect wind must be considered.
Factors to consider: location of wind resources, availability of roads and transmission lines, community support, land availability, zoning, noise, and environmental impact.
2) Once a site is selected how long does it take to get the turbines up and going? What all is involved in this process?
DeleteOne website I looked at estimated a year for the installation of a wind farm another website indicated that it would take about three years for studies and then one year for construction. The construction would start with ripping, hydraulic fracturing, or blasting of bedrock! (I hadn’t thought about this impact on the geosphere or the hydrosphere in the case of the hydraulic fracturing) In addition to having to remove bedrock there is also a need to transport turbines to the wind farm site. They are transported in pieces and are oversized loads.
Turbines have a generator mounted on the tower. The tower is assembled in four parts. The blades are also separate parts.
The foundation for a wind turbine is set 10 feet into the ground. Approximately 1045 cubic yards of material are removed to make a base for a wind turbine. They try to use material in building the bases that can be demolished once the turbine’s life is over.
3) What environmental studies are done before, during, and after construction of a wind farm?
The National Environmental Policies Act requires that studies are done concerning resources and environmental impacts of potential wind energy sites. There are a lot of federal and state agencies which must grant permission for the construction of a wind farm. As far as the biosphere goes these include…the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service and in State Fish and Game agencies. As far as the hydrosphere goes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers must make sure that there are no violations of the Clean Water Act and that wetlands and water crossings are not impacted.
4) Once the wind farm is built how it is maintained, who maintains it, and what is its expected lifespan?
DeleteWind farms have an expected lifespan of twenty years. This seems really short to me.
5) Where does the energy produced go? Who uses it and how much does it decrease the dependency on traditional energy sources?
Power companies buy the energy.
6) What is the impact of wind farms on communities? Do they really create jobs? Do they benefit farmers and ranchers? Do they benefit the local economy? Do they decrease energy costs?
During the construction of wind farms there is typically a short term increase in construction related jobs. Additionally, some jobs involved in maintaining wind farms will be created. These jobs will be around for the life of the wind farm. One resource estimated that this time frame to be about twenty years.
Wind turbines require the use of energy from traditional power plants to operate. Traditional power plants use their own energy. One site suggested that wind farms might use almost as much energy as they produce.
Wind energy costs are dropping and rates can be locked in for 20-30 years. (which implies to me that that aren’t really dropping)
http://www.horizonwindfarms.com/northeast-region/documents/under-dev/arkwright/Exhibit11_ConstructionScheduleBlastingPlanandPreliminaryTransportationPlan.pdf
http://www.goodenergy.co.uk/generate/choosing-your-technology/home-generation/wind-turbines/wind-turbine-site-selection
http://asmarterplanet.com/studentsfor/files/2012/12/gis-based-wind-farm-suitability-and-planning-study.pdf
http://www.aweo.org/windconsumption.html
http://www.awea.org/learnabout/utility/index.cfm?CFID=304084705&CFTOKEN=15903650&jsessionid=7830293fc26e3e3490ce453831d1c2d62484
By now I'm sure you are well on your way to completing this module. In a regular classroom setting, I would definitely have students work in groups of between 2 and 4. I hope you've been able to glean some information off each other's research to gain a better understanding of wind energy. I would have students check resources before using them, and I hope you do the same! Thank you for your hard work and insight!
ReplyDelete~Jenny
In researching these questions, I realized how poorly written, or at least at difficult the question was written to pin down one single answer. There are too many facets for several of them so, ultimately, the question cannot be answered. I have answered the questions the best I can based on the information I have researched. With this researching, however, I found a couple sites in which to reference that I think could help any number of individuals that are interested in good information. The first one, http://www.sdeia.com/PDF/WindPowerHandbook08.pdf is published by South Dakota governmental entities for the prospective investor.
ReplyDeleteWhat are the specifications/guidelines for a site of a wind farm and who conducts it then ultimately approves the location?
This was a very interesting question to research and a very difficult question to have narrow down to a simple answer. There are too many factors in this question because it is two-fold. The US Fish and Wildlife Service has set guidelines for site development effective this past month. They have set out 5 tiers: preliminary site evaluation; site characterization; field studies on wildlife/habitat and predicting project impacts; post-construction studies to study impacts; other post-construction impacts They have a great video available at http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/ that breaks down each tier and is explained by a professional who has knowledge in that particular field. Regarding the site location a wind study is conducted for a minimum of one year, but quite often using a two-year wind study for more accurate data. The data will tell investors roughly how much wind energy could potentially be created. Once this is determined the land owner(s) will then determine if the area is a viable location for the investment.
Are there minimums and maximums regarding numbers of turbines for personal ownership, or is it simply how much you can afford to invest?
Way too big of a question. There does not appear to be any minimum or maximum needed for tax breaks. According to http://www.dsireusa.org/summarytables/finre.cfm, it does not appear there are many incentives to build a wind farm given by the state of Kansas compared to other states. The Financial Incentives for Renewable Energy chart breaks down moneys into categories of personal tax, corporate tax, sales tax, property tax, rebates, grants, loans, industry support, bonds, and performance based incentives. There are rebates, property tax incentive, and an incentive for industry support, but not much else from the state. On the federal side an investor can get cuts on personal and corporate taxes, grants, loans and industry support.
What is the life expectancy of the equipment used to building the turbines?
ReplyDeleteAccording to http://greenanswers.com/question/how-long-do-wind-turbines-last/, turbines last 120,000 hours generally over a 20 year timespan, which they compare to a vehicle that will generally last between 4-6,000 hours.
How tall are they?
http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20101124084804AAboSNq
According to this website, the “height of a small turbine tower will be much lower than the larger wind farm turbines.” It goes on to explain that the height of area buildings and such will be added to a measure of 30 feet to attain the maximum efficiency of the turbine. This of course will be a rough estimate because all situations/environments are different. The average height of a small turbine is 80 feet.
What is the upfront cost of a turbine without governmental assistance?
The average payback on a turbine depends on several factors. This almost seemed to be a somewhat elusive question to try and answer. According to the website, http://www.windenergyfoundation.org/wind-at-work/wind-consumers/wind-power-your-home , an average turbine that can be used to power a house will probably cost about $30,000, but the website does mention costs can be one-third of that, or as much as almost three times that amount. Very small turbines can cost between $4,000 and $9,000.
http://www.windenergyfoundation.org/wind-at-work/wind-consumers/wind-power-your-home
Can any available government incentives be granted multiple years in a row or can you only apply for the assistance once (like the energy credit for your house)?
Still looking for this answer.
How do you sell energy to the grid?
Originally this question said “resell” but after taking the workshop and doing a little research one does not resell to the grid, they just sell to grid instead. If a turbine is on line with the grid, the energy can automatically be used by the energy company and none is utilized by the investor, or the investor can have a grid backup.
http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/energy/sell-electricity-back-grid2.htm
ReplyDelete(From previous post)
Is somebody working on a way to store energy?
General Energy has a neat website that explains the batteries developed for their equipment that are integrated into the design of the turbine. This eliminates bulky ground stations and the high costs associated with it. GE Energy further explains the concept of predictable power. The ability to store the energy in battery form allows the grid to know when to expect highs and lows of availability. This will result in less energy waste and less reliance on coal powered energy. http://www.ge-energy.com/wind/battery
In 2009, XCelEnergy tried something new with a MinWind Farm in Minnesota. They purchased a sodium-sulfur battery storage facility. They had several reasons for wanting to try a store facility of this magnitude, with the most prominent possibly being the need to update and upgrade the current Smart Grid to account for more reliance of green energy. http://www.xcelenergy.com/staticfiles/xe/Corporate/Environment/wind-to-battery%20fact%20sheet.pdf
Can a turbine go too fast resulting in damage to the equipment, ultimately resulting in damage to the surrounding hydrosphere, lithosphere, and/or biosphere?
Yes, it can and the results are often devastating to the equipment and surroundings. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration perform tests to see variability of the “invisible” wake that forms behind turbines resulting in possible damage, primarily turbines that are downwind from the turbines being tested. Several videos are available on the internet that might make an investor cringe. http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2011/20110426_windwakes.html . Similar tests have been conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy12osti/53567.pdf.
Summary
ReplyDeleteWith the basic investigating this project has prompted there does not appear to be any reason to not put in a wind turbine/wind farm in our area of central Kansas. The majority of questions an investor might have can be answered with access to the internet. There are some questions that will need to be answered with more information including contacting someone to conduct a wind study to determine placement, as well as the feasibility of contacting land owners that surround us to determine installing a small scale farm to assist many versus one. The federal government is attempting to make alternative energies more accessible by offering incentives and technology is certainly lending a hand in bringing down the costs and streamlining the process. I think until people become more accepting to the natural changes of the ecosystem there will be those that protest turbines.