Do wind turbines cause adverse heat effects? A review of the evidence

Abstract

There is a continuing debate about the veracity of AHE in the environs of WT. Proponents claim there is insufficient evidence to support the existence of direct AHE and therefore WT are safe to erect near human habitation. The international regulations governing WT placement are highly variable but generally a setback of at least 350 m (WHO 500m) and a noise limit of 40 dBA are recommended. Nonetheless there is mounting evidence that AHE are in fact occurring. In the 1980s, N D Kelley produced evidence of direct causation of AHE, especially sleep disturbance, from downwind WT, which was attributable to impulsive infrasound and low frequency noise. Subsequently, there has emerged further evidence regarding upwind WT that satisfies the nine Bradford Hill criteria. The presentation will define AHE and address each Braford Hill criterion.