Suspicion, distrust, confusion: Why wind farm developments are being delayed

The experience in Kilmanagh, Co Killkenny, is a perfect example of the problems and the need for a new blueprint

Communities 4 Just Transition are opposing a wind farm in Kilmanagh, Co Kilkenny. Picture: Patrick Browne

As is often the case with this business, it started as a rumour. A few people in the village of Kilmanagh heard some local farmers had been getting a knock on the door. Inquiries were made to check whether it was true. 

Most of the farmers who inhabited the rumour were reticent, but one or two had no problem sharing their experience. Yes, there had been an approach to sell or lease land. Yes, it’s another wind farm they’re talking about it. And yes, they were asked to say nothing for the time being.