The problem with wind power

Love them or hate them, wind turbines have visual impact and it has to be conceded that more than half the population:
"Would object to the installation of a wind turbine in their immediate vicinity" ( 57% according to the TV Country File poll of Feb. 2004).

It has also to be recognised that local planners are elected to reflect, and act on, the opinions expressed by the majority of those they represent. It follows therefore that refusal is the likely outcome for any planning submission involving wind power and the current rejection rate of over 50% merely indicates that local planning authorities are carrying out their electoral obligations

The accepted, typically British, compromise is for developers to appeal if local planners reject their submissions. The cost of an appeal, though it may be an acceptable addition to the cost of a large-scale development, is not justifiable for a small installation. Small machines, such as those suitable for domestic power supply, are therefore likely to have their installation restricted to remote sites or locations where those who benefit from them are the only ones affected by their visual impact. In other areas, with nearby dwellings, the rating of conventional wind turbines on the NIMNBY (Not In My Neighbour's Backyard) scale will tend to ensure that only turbines small enough to be exempt from planning regulations will find a significant UK market. - Unless their visual impact can be reduced.