Sweet-as New Zealand

Jun 02

Te Apiti wind farm. Near Palmerston North, New Zealand - December 2011

A house nestled in the midst of the wind farm.

The wind farm was built in 2003-2004 and consists of 55 turbines. Each turbine is 70 meters (230ft) tall with three blades of 35 meters (115ft), so 105 meters (345ft) at the highest point of the blade.

Wind farms are an alternative form of energy but are still controversial. Many communities fight against having wind farms erected near their homes. There have been reported health risks and other issues caused by the turbines low frequency noise and underground vibrations as well as incidents of the turbines catching fire and unable to be extinguished, breaking apart in storms throwing pieces up to 500 meters (1,640ft .25mile+), and negative effects to birds, bats, and other wildlife. Most experts have noted a safe living distance of around 2 kilometers (1.25miles).

I have to say that I’m not completely sold on wind farms. Yes, they are a great source of alternative energy, but I don’t feel like it’s the best option. From what I have learned, it seems that wind farms are pushed more because they produce greater profits for energy companies and not because they produce the most efficient energy.

Although, I stood directly under one of the turbines, and I was surprised at how quiet it was. I barely heard it. Although, these are considered quite small at only 70 meters (230ft) tall. Another wind farm was recently proposed nearby with turbines of 150 meters (492ft) tall, more than double. The tallest in the world being 160 meters (525ft) and with the blade measuring 205 meters (673ft).