Tuesday, 22 November 2005
Have I Mentioned The Wind Debate Yet?
So, as well as finishing my novel today, I also did yet more research into wind power. I looked at two sources today, one for the use of wind farms, and one against. My love of history lessons at school will always remind me to look at both sides of every story.
Ok, first of all, let me describe the case against wind that I finally found. I actually found some figures and stats this time, but I am unsure about giving a link or going into great detail about what this article says, as when I finished reading I was left feeling highly unsatisfied with the whole thing.
Why? Percentages and statistics were bandied about constantly without stating their sources. Quotes were used, which were then flatly contradicted by the text that followed, without stating where the data for the contradictions originates from. Things were stated as fact, or even obvious, without trying to explain the proof. The "some people find wind turbines attractive" argument was neatly swept under the carpet with a "that's not relevant"-type comment while the point about their unattractiveness was allowed.
I am sorry, but I expect better. If one person can sensibly explain the anti-wind argument, clearly stating the sources of all facts and statistics, I will gladly listen and thank them for their time. However, when much of the information in this article flatly contradicts statistics that are clearly referenced so that I can check their validity, I am inclined to not believe much of what was written in this case.
Feel free to contact me IF you believe you can educate me on the matter - but only if you have all your sources clearly referenced. I will not listen to arguments that make unsubstantiated claims - I have heard enough of that sort of thing!
The pro-wind research today does get a link, and not because I am biased, but because it is from such a prestigious centre of knowledge as Oxford University. Rather than reporting on someone else's findings, this comes straight from the horse's mouth. I urge everyone to read what is said in this useful study, published this month by Oxford University’s Environmental Change Institute for the DTI.
What is this all about? Hourly wind speed records collected by the Met Office since 1970 from 66 locations across the UK have been carefully analysed to find out just how useful wind power could be in this country. The findings of the study are very positive.
Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks said, “The only sensible debate about energy is one based on the facts. This new research is a nail in the coffin of some of the exaggerated myths peddled by opponents of wind power.”
I agree with the above statement. It is facts we must rely on to determine whether wind power is feasible, in practical, monetary and environmental terms, or not. Let's stop spouting rubbish that is at best hearsay and at worst outright lying, and start listening to the truth!
Mr Wicks adds, "While the 'wrong' leaves may fall on our railway tracks and we hear people in the water industry talk about the 'wrong' kind of rain, we have the best wind - and that's official!"
Want to find out more? Read about how the UK has the best wind resource in Europe for yourselves, and spread the word!
