Court upholds current wind turbine setbacks

The wind energy industry in Ontario is pleased with the Ontario Divisional Court decision to uphold the current regulations for wind turbine setbacks.

The application by Ontario resident Ian Hanna suggested, among other things, that the government did not adhere to their own Statement of Environmental Values SEV in developing a setback of 550 metres for the siting of wind turbines.

The Court ruled that setback distances were established through an extensive public consultation process which considered the views of a wide range of stakeholders and that the Minister did consider the SEV.

"The wind energy industry is committed to the responsible and sustainable development of wind energy in Ontario and across the country. We have stated from the outset that this application had no merit and should not have been brought before the court," said Robert Hornung, president of CanWEA. "Ontario's set-back regulations are among the most stringent in the world and are designed to protect the health and safety of the public. CanWEA member companies ensure they are in compliance with all regulatory requirements."

The balance of expert scientific and medical information to date clearly indicates there is no direct link between wind turbines and effects on human health, said Hornung. This is backed, he points out, by the province's Chief Medical Officer of Health as well as the National Public Health Institute in Quebec, and a growing body of peer-reviewed scientific and medical information.

"As a responsible industry, we will continue to receive and review new and credible information as it is made available," said Hornung.

Wind energy's growing contribution to Ontario's electricity supply is making Ontario a leader in green energy production, and bringing much-needed jobs and economic opportunities to local communities.

Related News

toronto-power-outages-persist-for-hundreds-after-spring-storm

Toronto Power Outages Persist for Hundreds After Spring Storm

TORONTO - In the aftermath of a powerful spring storm that swept through Toronto on Tuesday, approximately 400 customers remain without power as of Sunday. The storm, which brought strong winds and heavy rain, led to significant damage across the city, including downed trees and power lines. Toronto Hydro crews have been working tirelessly to restore service, focusing on areas with the most severe damage. While many customers have had their power restored, the remaining outages are concentrated in neighborhoods where access is challenging due to debris and fallen infrastructure.

Toronto Hydro has assured residents that restoration efforts are ongoing…

READ MORE

Germany considers U-turn on nuclear phaseout

READ MORE

hydro quebec exports

Electricity exports to New York from Quebec will happen as early as 2025: Hydro-Quebec

READ MORE

danish wind power

Wind Denmark - Danish electricity generation sets a new green record

READ MORE

powerlines

Federal net-zero electricity regulations will permit some natural gas power generation

READ MORE