Environment

During the development of a wind farm, environmental and ecological issues are studies in detail as part of the independent Environmental Impact Assessment. This assessment ensures any environmental impacts are sufficiently outweighed by the environmental benefits. The assessment process lasts for around two years and takes into account all breeding and ecological seasons. The results of the assessment are presented within an 'Environmental Statement' which accompanies the planning application. Key areas studies include:

Surface & Ground Water

The mapping and analysis of all surface and ground water courses is a key component of the environmental assessment. The purpose is to assess any likely impacts on water quantity and quality within both the development area and surrounding countryside. Study methodologies are agreed with the Environment Agency or Scottish Natural Heritage and the outcomes fed into the overall windfarm design process. In this way turbines and access roads can be positioned to minimise water impact. During the construction phase of a wind farm, a series of comprehensive, tried and tested methods are used to monitor and prevent surface and ground water pollution.

Noise

Modern wind turbines are a very quiet form of generation and the noise emitted is so little that it is possible to hold a conversation under a turbine without raising your voice. Noise levels at nearby residences are measured and analysed to ensure that a wind farm will not be a noise nuisance to its neighbours.

Ecology

Scottish Natural Heritage, English Nature and local wildlife groups are consulted, and assessments are carried out to establish the effect of the development on local flora and fauna. Baseline information gathered from site surveys can then be fed into the overall design process to ensure access roads and turbines don't impact on sensitive ecology, flaura and fauna.

Ornothology

The RSPB is consulted and extensive bird surveys are carried out over several seasons, by day and night, to establish whether or not the proposed turbines will have an effect on local bird life. Following this, detailed plans for habitat management can be prepared to benefit to enhance the area surrounding the wind farm.

Archaeology

Both national and local archaeological groups are consulted to establish if proposed sites are likely to have significant impacts on heritage sites or archaeological remains.