Wind farm consequences

WITH climate change and population growth, a global energy crisis looms.

Alternative sources of power must be developed, fast. Harnessing waves and tidal flows is difficult. Roof panels have a role but solar energy on a large scale may only be possible in sunnier climes.

Wind farms have their critics but the windmill is the most promising alternative technology. Ireland is one of the windiest countries; if this resource can be tapped successfully, it’s here. In 2020, forecasts suggest, 20% of Europe’s energy will come from wind. This will increase to 30% by 2030. Estimates for the use of wind energy worldwide vary from 5% to 29%. Turbines can be located at sea but land ones make more economic sense. Inevitably, wind farms will be a feature of upland everywhere.