NedZero (formerly kwown as NWEA) has noted that various media have quoted people in recent months who claim that there is a direct link between wind turbines and health damage. We understand the concerns of residents of wind farms that have arisen as a result of this reporting.
Much research has been done into this supposed relationship, but to date a clear connection has only been found for the health effect 'annoyance'. These connections are not clear-cut for all other health effects, according to the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) .
For example, sources state that new and larger wind turbines make more noise. This is not right. Larger windmills don't make more noise than small ones, nor do they make a special kind of low noise that can cause problems. There are rules in the Netherlands that prescribe how much noise pollution wind turbines may cause, no matter how large or how new they are. These rules protect people near wind turbines. Just as there are rules for other types of noise, such as from cars or trains.
There is a noise limit of 47 Lden dB(A) for wind turbines. This means that the noise level is measured in such a way that it is fairly comparable with noise pollution from other sources. There is even a stricter rule coming that says that the noise from wind turbines must be reduced to 45 Lden dB(A). This means even better protection against noise pollution for people who live close to wind turbines.
One case of noise pollution at Meeden (N33) is specifically mentioned: there was indeed a problem with a humming noise there due to an error in the design. This problem has been taken seriously, measures have been taken and consultations with residents in the area are still ongoing. Following this incident, NedZero itself has made a proposal regarding the regulation of this tonal noise. This proposal has been considered by the government.
The wind energy sector supports more research, even after all the studies already conducted. The Nivel study is a good example. This started two years ago with help from the government and other groups, including some doctors who are now taking action against the research they helped shape. The investigation looks into people's complaints and was completed on time. Some people are now critical of the results and there will therefore be a follow-up study . We support that too.
Wind projects help to combat climate change and make us less dependent on gas from Russia. We know that this can sometimes cause problems, such as noise pollution. We like to hear criticism. However, unfounded complaints do not help when discussing wind energy in our society.
NedZero will continue to make efforts to pay full attention to minimizing inconvenience to local residents in the further development of onshore wind energy.
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