The renewable energies debate is just hot air

The spectre of global warming and the political panic surrounding it has triggered a gold rush for renewable energy sources without a discussion of the merits and drawbacks of each.

Wind turbines cannot generate enough energy to reduce global CO2 levels meaningfully; wind power is intermittent and cannot generate a steady output, necessitating back-up coal and gas power plants that significantly negate the saving of greenhouse-gas emissions.

In addition to the inefficacy of wind power, there are ecological drawbacks, including damage to habitats, wildlife and the aesthetic assault of wind turbines upon natural beauty and the pristine landscape.

Wind power, both in Ireland and the UK, has been, and is being, excessively financed at the cost of consumers who have not been consulted, nor informed that this effective subsidy is being paid from their bills, taxes, etc, to support an industry that cannot be cost-efficient or, ultimately, favour the cause it purports to support.

In fact, at no stage has a proper, cost-effective analysis of the wind-power sector in Ireland been undertaken.

Those who are benefiting are the carpetbagger developers who are in it to make a quick buck.

Patrick L O’Brien MSc (NUI)

Victoria Cross

Cork