ProWA - Pro Wind Alliance

Compared with fossil fuels and nuclear power, renewable energy that harnesses the sun, the wind and other natural energy flows is relatively benign. In particular, very few pollutants are emitted per unit of energy generated. Moreover, renewables provide a diverse, secure and inexhaustible source of energy. Coupled with a programme of improved energy efficiency, renewable energy displaces finite or less benign energy sources in response to peak oil and climate change.
All energy systems have an impact on the natural environment. It is inevitable, therefore, that conflicts of interest will arise between providing energy services and ensuring that people, wildlife and open spaces are adequately protected. The environmental impacts of most renewable energy technologies are considerably less than those of the current energy systems they displace. Visual intrusion is sensed only by humans, but nevertheless is extremely important. If there is an understanding of the benefits of a particular installation, then the physiological and aesthetic impact is likely to be favourable.
The Pro Wind Alliance (ProWA) is an association of local individuals and groups who are convinced that renewables are vital for the future and who are therefore in favour of developing properly designed local renewable generating capability. ProWA aims to provide objective information, backed by sound research and references. In particular, ProWA supported the planning applications for the projects listed below and supports the projects listed under Current Wind Power Proposals. An overview table with details of all the projects ProWA has supported or is currently supporting can be found here.
It is common for opponents of wind power to state that wind turbines need substantial 'back up' plant on the grid for periods when there is no wind. This is far from true, as this new report shows. Main factors necessitating significant reserve plant capacity are: (1) all forms of generation stop sometimes (e.g. unexpected and sudden outages of nuclear plant), and (2) the demand changes, sometimes suddenly (e.g. at the end of televised national sporting events). The reserve in place already is more than sufficient for UK wind power now and in the next 10 years at least.

Success! Dec 2009: Secretary of State approves Swinford Windfarm, based on Planning Inspector's report
Success! Jan 2010: Kettering Borough Council approves New Albion Windfarm, following officer's advice
Listen to interviews with the Planning Chair for KBC and the Chief Executive of Infinergy
Success! March 2010: Inspector approves Low Spinney Windfarm following public inquiry
Success! July 2010: Inspector approves Yelvertoft Windfarm following public inquiry

What you can do:
• Register your support for Kelmarsh Windfarm
• Submit a letter of support for Dalby Wind Park
• Submit a letter of support for Watford Lodge Windfarm
• Join the Support Wind Applications in Northants Facebook group
• Join the Gartee Facebook group

Images by Jonathan Clark, local photographer and wind enthusiast

Information on anti-wind groups