FAQs
Project Benefits
Q: How will the community benefit from the wind farm?
A: The project will provide economic benefits through job creation during both the construction and operational phases. The ClearSky Advisors report estimates 10.5 person-years of employment per MW during construction and 3.6 person-years per MW during operation. For the 59.45 MW project, this translates to roughly 624 person-years of employment during construction and 214 person-years over the project’s life. Additionally, local contractors will be engaged, and the municipality will receive increased tax revenue. Community input will shape further investments.
Regional/Resident Impacts
Noise and Health Effects
Q: What studies have been conducted on wind turbine noise and health impacts?
A: Extensive global research, including studies by Health Canada, shows no conclusive evidence linking wind turbine noise to adverse health effects. While some individuals may experience annoyance, noise levels are continuously monitored and managed.
Q: How will noise-related issues such as annoyance and sleep disturbances be addressed?
A: Turbines comply with strict regulatory noise limits. If residents experience issues, site-specific mitigation strategies like noise barriers or operational adjustments will be implemented.
Q: Will electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from the project impact health?
A: EMFs from transmission lines and substations decrease rapidly with distance. Given the distance from residences, any impact is expected to be minimal. Health Canada and the WHO provide further information on EMFs and safety.
Setback Planning
Q: Why are setback distances different for participating and non-participating landowners?
A: Participating landowners voluntarily agree to host turbines, allowing more flexibility. Non-participating landowners have larger setbacks to minimize disruptions like noise and shadow flicker.
Q: Are current setback distances sufficient to protect non-participating landowners?
A: Yes, setback distances are based on rigorous scientific research and regulatory standards to mitigate noise and visual disruptions, ensuring safety and comfort.
Property Values
Q: Have studies evaluated the impact of wind turbines on property values?
A: Numerous studies, including those by the U.S. Department of Energy, found no consistent evidence that wind turbines negatively affect property values. Some areas even see increased values due to the economic benefits of wind farms.
Q: What compensation is available for property devaluation?
A: Although property devaluation is uncommon, we will explore compensation options, including property tax adjustments, if specific cases arise.
Community Consultation and Transparency
Q: What steps are being taken to ensure meaningful consultation?
A: We engage with the community through public meetings, open houses, and online platforms, ensuring continuous dialogue and feedback incorporation.
Q: How will feedback be incorporated into the project?
A: Community feedback influences key project decisions such as turbine placement and noise mitigation strategies.
Minimizing Construction Impacts
Q: What disruptions should residents expect during construction?
A: Temporary disruptions include increased traffic and noise. We coordinate schedules to minimize impact and keep residents informed.
Q: How will sensitive soils be managed?
A: Site-specific conservation measures, such as topsoil salvage and erosion control, will minimize impacts on soils and vegetation.
Public Safety
Q: What safety measures are in place for incidents like ice throw or equipment failure?
A: Advanced monitoring systems detect potential issues. Turbines automatically shut down in extreme weather, and regular maintenance ensures safety.
Visual Impact
Q: How will visual impact be managed?
A: Mitigation strategies include strategic turbine placement, landscaping, and minimizing turbine height where necessary to preserve scenic views.
Agricultural and Environmental Preservation
Q: How much farmland will be taken out of use?
A: Each turbine typically occupies less than half an acre, allowing surrounding land to remain in agricultural use.
Q: What steps will minimize wildlife impact?
A: Environmental assessments and mitigation strategies, like operational adjustments during migration, will protect local wildlife.
Safeguarding Water Sources
Q: How will water contamination be prevented?
A: Safeguards include spill prevention, erosion control, and continuous monitoring. Baseline water quality testing is conducted before construction.
End of Life and Decommissioning
Q: What is the plan for decommissioning?
A: A comprehensive plan involves safely dismantling turbines, removing infrastructure, and restoring the land. A decommissioning bond ensures sufficient funding.
Q: Will landowners have a say in post-decommissioning land use?
A: Yes, landowners will be consulted to align restoration efforts with their preferences.