Group that represents Kilkenny communities raise wind farm development concerns with Taoiseach
Communities and Environmental Protection Alliance (CEPA) presented a case for the necessity of statutory regulation
A national organisation that represents a number of community groups in Kilkenny with concerns about various aspects of wind farm development recently held a meeting with Taoiseach Simon Harris.
During the 30-minute discussion, Communities and Environmental Protection Alliance (CEPA) presented a case for the necessity of statutory regulation to protect public health, referencing the 2018 WHO guidelines that recommend a maximum wind turbine noise level of 37 dB.
In addition, CEPA urged the Taoiseach’s department to review the wind energy policy in light of advancements in science regarding wind turbine noise, including amplitude modulation, infrasound and low-frequency noise.
The group also stated that ‘the Health Service Executive is not being notified of wind energy planning applications categorised as strategic infrastructure developments’.
Expert submissions were provided by an acoustician, several engineers and environmental academics.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the Taoiseach to continue engaging with CEPA.