As wind power generates more electricity in the U.S. and moves into news areas of the country, more people are being introduced to wind turbines in their communities. Wind power is still a relatively new technology and a number of myths, some based on old technologies, and some based on misunderstandings, are often repeated by opponents of wind power.

We hope to dispel a couple of these myths and provide some insight into what wind power is really about.

Question 1: Are wind turbines noisy?
Noise was an issue with some early turbine designs, but it has been largely eliminated as a problem through improved engineering and through appropriate use of setbacks from nearby residences. Compared to other industrial facilities, wind farms are relatively quiet. A small amount of noise is generated by the mechanical components of the wind turbine, including the movement of the blades in the air.

Question 2: How far must a wind turbine be setback from a home?
Minnesota is one of many states that specify the maximum exposure levels of noise to its citizens. For a residence, the noise standard established is 50 decibels. The setback for wind turbines is whatever it takes to meet this standard, which typically means placing turbines 1000 to 1500 feet away from homes dependent on the turbine model used, the layout and other site-specific conditions.

Adam Sokolski, from the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Energy Facilities Permitting Department, says the state standard has been tested for over 10 years and they have much confidence in its effectiveness.

Question 3: Do wind turbines kill birds and bats?
Very few. Bird deaths from wind power are unlikely to reach over 1% of those killed by other sources.

Source: American Wind Energy Association (AWEA)

Read more stories from the Spring 2008 newsletter