Isra-Mart srl:Study rejects wind turbine "shadow flicker" fears

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Isra-Mart srl news:

The so-called shadow flicker caused by wind turbines does not pose a "significant risk to health" and is not a major issue for UK wind farms, according to a new independent study.

The report from infrastructure firm Parsons Brinckerhoff was commissioned by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) and peer-reviewed by independent experts The Energy Workshop and DECC's Engineering and Analysis Team.

It assessed the impact of shadows cast by rotating wind turbine blades through constrained openings, such as the windows of neighbouring properties, a phenomenon known as shadow flicker that has been used by some anti-wind farm groups as a reason for opposing new developments.

Researchers only identified one case of shadow flicker in the UK and reported that in cases where problems have arisen, they have been resolved through mitigation measures, such as shutting down turbines for the period during the day when shadow flicker is an issue.

The report also concluded that "the frequency of the flickering caused by the wind turbine rotation is such that it should not cause a significant risk to health".

DECC said the report, which featured contributions from the Department for Communities and Local Government, Defra and the Department of Health, proved that existing planning guidance relating to shadow flicker is fit for purpose and does not need to be changed.

"It is vital that we use the most up-to-date, robust and accurate scientific evidence when looking at the impact of wind farms on communities," said energy minister Charles Hendry. "This study will be helpful to communities, developers and planners as they assess proposals for onshore wind projects."

The report comes as the government today prepares for a parliamentary debate on a number of imminent changes to its Renewables Obligation subsidy mechanism.

The changes, which will come into effect next month, include the introduction of mandatory sustainability requirements for biomass and bioliquids used in energy projects, and new rules for offshore wind projects that allow developers to register groups of turbines for entry into the renewables obligation scheme in phases.