The Renewable Energy of Wind Farming in Ireland

THE RENEWABLE ENERGY
OF WIND FARMING IN
IRELAND
Author: Amy Dempsey
MSc Construction Project
Management: Dissertation

The Renewable Energy of Wind Farming in Ireland
MSc Construction Project Management: Dissertation
Author: Amy Dempsey
1
Abstract
This dissertation will investigate the renewable wind energy across Ireland. Factual evidence
from peer-reviewed academic journals, unstructured interviews and surveys will trace and look
into the process and installation of wind turbines locating the positions and developments
across Ireland where wind farming is producing electricity. An analysis of this approach will be
given, to exploring the industrial side example, The Irish Wind Energy Association (I.W.E.A)
of producing electricity, and to the domestic level of productivity for private use. Reports and
findings will help conclude in representing the negative and positive aspects of wind farms in
Ireland, exploring the issues of how wind turbines cause shadow flicker, noise, effects on local
habitats, eco – systems and Ireland’s skyline. It will explore other possible sources of renewable
energies Ireland may have to offer.
Key Words
Renewable Energy Source, Wind Turbines, Less Carbon Emissions, Maintenance Cost’s,
Noise Effects, Shadow flicker, Landscape, Ecological, Economic, Environment and Job
Creation.

Author: Amy Dempsey
2
Chapter 1.
1.00 Introduction
The Irish Wind Energy Association was established in 1993, and is the main body in Ireland
representing, promoting and provide educational issues, on wind energy in Ireland. The IWEA
play a leading role in conference organization, lobbying and policy development on the island
in the Republic of Ireland. There are a wide range of wind energy companies across Ireland.
Wind energy is a valuable source of renewable energy and there is a market to take advantage
of it as suggested by (Carton 2010). Could there be too many developments across Ireland
with wind energy, as the wind energy guidelines dating back from 2006 need to be updated and
a constant regulatory system be put in place (Braonain 2013).
1.01 Background
Ireland is highly dependent on imported fuels. On the island, Ireland’s only independent fuel
is peat. Fossil fuels are running low; and the costs i.e. (oil and gas) are constantly on the rise. If
war was to break out in the morning in areas where Ireland gets its fuel supply from e.g. Russia,
Eastern Europe, Ireland would be cut off from fuel sources, the country has only sufficient
reserves to last 78 days (Donnelly 2010) This is one of the main reasons why there is great
interest in Renewable Energy Sources, so Ireland can be a more independent country within its
energy source sector. One of the intense topics of renewable energy in Ireland is wind energy.
Ireland became a member of the European Union (E.U) in 1973, in the past twenty years
Ireland has followed an E.U policy which was put in place for all members of the E.U to reach
targets to lower greenhouse gas emissions. In 1990 within Europe, gas emissions were spiralling
out of control. Hence over the past few years there has been an agreement within the E.U and
Ireland (Kyoto Protocol), that Ireland reach a target by 2020 of reducing it greenhouse gas
emissions by 20%.

Author: Amy Dempsey
3
This dissertation will consist of a broad research towards the locations of wind turbines located
across Ireland. The construction process, the workings of the turbines, maintenance costs and
lifespan will be analysed and studied. There will be an investigation of Irelands biggest wind
turbine to date. It has been reported by (Zhe et al, 2011) that Ireland has four times wind
energy resource than that of the European average. This report is important because the need
to educate wind energy is lacking, both for beneficial and non -beneficial. Ireland has gradually
grown over the years in providing a better environment, and would like to use this natural
energy source practiced safely and have a more future prospect energy security.
1.02 Rationale
Wind Energy in Ireland is an important development in the Irish energy sector. Ireland relies
highly on imported fossil fuels, and these are decreasing every year around the world (Rourke
F, 2009). This dissertation will generate information on wind energy of how we can use this
renewable source by its most effective ways, while keeping the environment in mind. The area
of the topic will be addressed across Ireland. This will include researching wind energy both
domestic and industrial in connection with the two main national grid company’s EirGrid and
E.S.B (Energy Supply Board). The topic will include the history of wind energy, the variety of
wind turbines, the onshore turbine locations, and there will be a study of the beneficial and
non-beneficial of wind energy in Ireland.
1.03 Significance of Research
The importance of this dissertation is to produce a professional document for educational
purposes by exploring the renewable energy source of onshore wind energy. Examining the
social and environmental impacts of wind energy in Ireland. Ranging from the economical side
and equities Ireland may gain from wind energy. The locations across Ireland that are in the
proposed structural framework of developments and to examine the argumentative side
following the benefits and negative environmental impacts wind energy may offer.
1.04 Aim
The aim of this research is to inquire into The Renewable Energy of Wind Farming, the
method of generating electricity from onshore wind turbines.

Author: Amy Dempsey
4
1.05 Hypothesis
It is naïve to think wind energy is Ireland’s solutions towards the renewable energy sector.
1.06 0bjectives
1. To produce a theoretical understanding of wind energy and the installation process of
Wind Turbines/Farms in Ireland.
2. To assess the current position of the source of energy in Ireland.
3. To investigate the role of wind in electricity and for the commercial market.
4. To examine and identify the negative and positive aspects of wind farming in Ireland.
5. To understand what exactly wind farming energy has to offer.
1.7 Structure of the Dissertation Chapters.
The following structure will be implemented in to this dissertation.
Chapter 1: An introduction in to the chosen topic, following with aims, objectives and why the
topic has been chosen.
Chapter 2: Will consist of a literature review in relation to five themes.
Chapter 3: Will consist of research methods elected and the methodological considerations
that will reinforce the research undertaken. In this section the layout and approach will be fully
justified.
Chapter 4: Will deal with the analysis of data from surveys and unstructured interviews for the
investigation and present findings.
Chapter 5: Will present an argumentative approach of the findings and an analysis proving with
further importance that has linked the concept within the research sources.
Chapter 6: This chapter will bring the investigation to an end, with a collaboration of
conclusions of the research and findings which were encountered, and will follow with
recommendations for future research on the topic.

Author: Amy Dempsey
5
1.8 Model of Dissertation Structure
Research Methodology
Literature Review
Introduction and
research problem
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Discuss findings and relate
back to literature
Conclusions and
Recommendations
Objective 1.
Objective 2.
Objective 3.
Objective 4.
Objective 5.
 Interviews
 Literature
 Potential
Developments
Examine the Wind Energy
process and electricity.
Investigate the Environmental
impacts Wind Energy has on
Ireland. (Greenhouse gas
emissions)
Generate an overall
understanding of the wind
industry regulations and
structure across Ireland.
Develop theoretical
propositions

Author: Amy Dempsey
6
1.09 Conclusion
Wind energy developments are growing across Ireland, one of the largest developments of
wind energy developments is to begin in 2015 across the midlands of Ireland and it is proposed
that this will represent the largest wind farm in Europe (Engineering & Technology, 2013).
This dissertation seeks to present an understanding of the renewable source of wind energy in
Ireland and focus on the prior hypothesis stated earlier above. Arguments will be put forward
for the benefits and negative impacts wind energy has on Ireland, support from academic peer-
reviewed papers will supply the relevant information. An investigation will examine the role of
wind in electricity and domestic market for private use. Finally this dissertation will
comprehend the availability of wind energy on a renewable source in Ireland and why Ireland
needs to explore beyond fossil fuels, to consider other renewable energy sources (biomass,
wave, geothermal and solar i.e. to reduce Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, keeping in mind
of the E.U agreement).

Author: Amy Dempsey
7
Chapter 2.
Critical Literature Review
2.00 Background:
Recent reports on the Wind Energy sector suggest that this sector has grown across Ireland in
recent years, (Zhe et al, 2010). (O’Sullivan 2013) on the 25th
of January 2013, after the Irish
Minister for Energy, Pat Rabbit T.D announced a sale to Britain of wind energy. Ireland is
becoming aware of it potential energy resource and is using it to its advantage by improving its
equity source. This has meant that the proposal of the world’s largest wind turbines are now
going to be built and located across the Irish midlands for the production of electricity
(Braonain 2013) and (Engineering & Technology, 2013). However this has not helped build
the general public’s positive opinion. (King et, al 2011) and (Diamond 2009) claim public’s
negativity towards the interference of ecological systems and landscape towards wind energy.
This has come to light due to speculation of environmental effects and humans claiming wind
turbine noise syndrome. These reports have been targeted mainly towards the turbines, which
have been accused of causing a number of problems, from the height of the turbines, noise
pollution, destroying the landscape, high maintenance costs, high decommissioning costs and it
have been suggested they have interfered with the agricultural sector, such as animal livestock.
Ireland’s energy fuel system is vulnerable and future fuel prices are predicted (Connolly 2010)
to increase 44% in 2020 due to fuel price increases around the world alone. Ireland is aware
that it must make a contribution towards reducing its greenhouse gas emissions as it has signed
a treaty with the E.U to accomplish this.

Author: Amy Dempsey
8
2.01 Introduction
Wind Energy is defined as creating energy from wind. Applying wind turbines that are like
giant pinwheels. The blades on the turbine situated at the top, are turned by the force of the
wind, which create and store energy in special designed battery-types as they spin. This energy
can be then used to power homes and businesses.
The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in Kyoto, Japan, on 11 December 1997 and entered into law
on 16 February 2005. 184 Parties of the Convention have ratified its Protocol to date. It is an
international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change.
The Kyoto Protocol was the first real international summit, resulting in agreement between
countries where many of the world's industrial nations settled on certifiable treaty to lower their
emissions of six greenhouse gases in a direction to reduce elements to global warming. The
main highlight of the Kyoto Protocol is that it sets connecting aims for the 37 industrialized
countries and the European community for lowering emissions. This amount to an average of
five per cent against 1990
levels over the five-year
period 2008-2012.
Figure 2.1 represents how
Ireland’s energy growth
increased dramatically in the
1990’s and is estimated to
grow by 38% in the time span
between 2005-2020.
Following on ten years later
under the Kyoto Protocol in the United Nations Framework convention on Climate change,
the E.U came to an agreement, to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the E.U by
eight per cent below 1990 levels (Scannell 2011). Following a five year agreement from 2007 to
2012, Ireland agreed to reduce their emissions, and have done so, as suggested by reports from
the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A) in Ireland, Sustainable Energy Authority of
Ireland and the E.U.
(Figure 2.1)

Author: Amy Dempsey
9
The above (Figure 2.2) represents Ireland’s total fuel consumption between the years 1990-
2012. Ireland’s primary energy in 2012 fell by 4.6% following a 6.5% fall in 2012. Main fuel
energy requirements peaked in 2008 and have now decreased by 19% since then. This chart
below (Figure 2.c) represents Ireland’s Kyoto Limit for greenhouse gas emissions
(Figure 2.3).
This graph represents the trend in yearly Green House Gas emissions in Ireland for the
period1990-2012. The emissions are grouped in relation to the source.
(Figure 2.2)(From Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, February 2014)
Million Tons
Total Final Consumption by Fuel 1990-2012

Author: Amy Dempsey
10
(Figure 2.4)
Figure 2.4 represents the first breach of Ireland’s Kyoto target for the period 2008 – 2012 was
in 1998. In 2001, greenhouse gas emissions were at a high of 27% above 1990 levels. 2002
there was a decrease in emissions which dropped to 24% above 1990 levels. In 2008 and 2011
there was a rate of reduction in emissions due to the economic downturn as this helped reduce
levels of emissions, with an estimated fall of emissions by 15.2% between 2008 and 2011. 2012
emissions rose by 1.2% in comparison with 2011. The Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) estimated that total greenhouse gas emissions took a rise in 2012 by 1.2% this meant that
there was an increase of 58 million tonnes of emissions. This has meant Ireland is meeting the
emissions target are have been below Ireland’s Kyoto limit of 62.84 Mt CO2eq.
Recent research has shown, Ireland is coming under pressure from the European Union and
from the continuous pressure from its economic downturn; Ireland’s wind energy source is
being taken advantage of, (Diamond 2009). (Gent 2013) suggests that Ireland made a historical
abundant of wind energy sale to England on the 25th
of January 2013.Ireland would capitalise
on this sale. It is stated by (Li 2011) and supported by (O’Sullivan 2011) that Ireland has a great
abundance of wind energy. (McGarrigle E V, 2013) Ireland is positioned well toward wind
currents coming from the east and west of the country. With this abundant of energy will
Ireland lease out its terrain to other neighbouring E.U counties to develop the energy, after all
Ireland is still new to this development of renewable energy. Ireland is heavily dependent on
KYOTO TARGET FOR
IRELAND (2008 -2012)

Author: Amy Dempsey
11
fossil fuels (Connolly 2010). 89% of Ireland’s total consumption of fuel is imported. (Rourke
2009) suggest the leading consumer in Ireland for energy is the transport sector coming in at
41.5%, then with residential at 23%, industrial sectors at 20.6%, agriculture is 2.5% and service
sectors are at 12.4%. It is evident that Ireland needs to find new alternative energy sources to be
more secure, dependent, efficient, environmentally friendly and economic in its energy system.
For such a small country there is an issue that Ireland relies too heavily on transportation. Costs
in fossil fuels are rising all the time. A feasibility study carried out by (Gardner et al, 2003)
explored the effects of wind energy in Ireland, and recognized the most costly aspects of wind
energy was the transmission reinforcement, wind curtailment, capital costs and operating costs.
It is claimed by (Gardner et al, 2003) that in 2004 the E.S.B (Electricity Supply Board) did a
cost analysis, they concluded wind energy would increase generation cost’s €196 million.
Though (Meibom et al, 2008) disagrees, they came up with a study that identified of what the
effects of large wind turbines in Ireland in terms of overall operational costs and emissions.
Research found that Ireland could meet a 42% feasible wind penetration by 2020.
This source of energy does have its beneficial and non-beneficial aspects. (Braonain 2013)
suggests a review needs to be given to the Irish Energy Planning Guidelines (2006), due to
speculation and related issues dealing with noise and shadow flicker from wind turbines. It was
agreed in a letter by (The Department of the Environment , Community and local
Government 2013) that a review was to be undertaken on the Irish Energy Planning Guidelines
(2006), it is now being reviewed at present focusing on noise, proximity and shadow flicker of
the turbines. (King E, 2011) Says undoubtable that wind turbines will generate noise and that
they are more of an annoyance visually.
When the wind drops and the wind turbine stop turning, a costly issue with them is the
upstarts in rebooting the wind turbines start back up again. If the wind is blowing to fast then
the turbines have to be shut down as they cannot take the force of the wind if the wind speeds
are too fast for the wind turbines. Upstarts or ramping up and down is costly to power stations
suggests (Carton, 2010).
Behind the shadows there are programmes and studies being carried out as we speak to find
best possible solutions for wind energy. Further on down through the chapter, benefits and
non-beneficial of wind energy will be illustrated.

Author: Amy Dempsey
12
2.02 Introduction to relevant topics:
The Irish onshore wind energy industry is regularly being brought up as a major game player
for renewable energy source in Ireland over the past five years, (Scannell 2011) and (Mc
Garrgle 2013). A contributing factor to this is the necessity for the consumption of energy fuels,
and Ireland depends heavily on imported fossil fuels. Ireland has signed a treaty with the E.U
to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and to assemble the required target by 2020. This
chapter will examine the physical/mechanical process of wind turbines, from the building stage
to the production of electricity. A wind energy development across Ireland will be examined
(Melia et al, 2013). The feasibility of the production of electricity from wind turbines will be
examined. Arguments representing the negative and positive aspects of wind energy in Ireland
will be evaluated. Possible Renewable Energy Sources in Ireland (Rourke 2009) will be
assessed.

Author: Amy Dempsey
13
Picture 2.a (Photograph taken by Amy Dempsey, location Ringaskiddy, Co Cork)
2.03 The Physical/Mechanical Process of Wind Turbines
A key issue regarding the wind turbines is the separation or distance between surrounding
turbines and neighbouring homes. A Danish rule of thumb is slowly making its way into
Ireland’s installation of wind turbines. This rule of thumb states, the turbines are to be no
closer to neighbouring homes four times then the total height of the turbine. Installation of
wind turbines of onshore (Horgan 2012) and (Manwell et al, 2003) suggest there are four man
components which form the foundations for the turbines, aerodynamics, gravity, dynamic
interactions and mechanical control.
Aerodynamics: is the study of the motion of air and the interaction between the air and the
wind turbine moving through it.
Gravity: is a force that pulls together all matter/turbine.
Dynamic Interactions: is how the wind turbine will react to the foundation that holds it in place.
Mechanical Control: controls the speed of the turbine. (If the wind is blowing to fast then the
turbine will be slowed down or turned in the opposite direction, so it doesn’t overload)
Before construction of a wind energy development takes place both the Sustainable Energy
Authority of Ireland guidelines (2012) and the Scottish National Heritage (2010) both agree,
key issues need to be addressed and researched in the located area of the development, these
are as follows, seasonal considerations, construction method statement,

Author: Amy Dempsey
14
Ecological/environmental studies, recreation and access, woodland removal, drainage,
Construction access, site compound, cable installation, turbine foundation/crane pad and
finally habitat restoration, (Draper, 2014) also agrees with this.
With any type of construction, first comes groundwork’s then a foundation. Research by the
Scottish National Heritage (2010) the construction of a turbine foundation and crane pad
construction starts first with the testing of the ground conditions. This is vital because the
ground conditions will determine the type of foundation to be put in place to support the
turbine. The type of foundations used for onshore turbines are, piled, anchored and gravity.
Renewable U.K (2012) explains the construction phase of a wind development has three stages
and these are turbine manufacture which will include the tower, blades and internal
components, balance of the plant which will incorporate activities to install completed turbine
and grid connection which will consist of connecting the turbines to the national grid.
(Rourke 2009) explains wind turbines fall into two categories, horizontal axis and vertical axis.
Vertical wind turbines (rotating shaft is vertical to the ground).
The horizontal (shaft rotates horizontal to the ground) wind turbines are the most familiar used
in Ireland; these consist of a three rotor blade system. The shaft rotates and is connected to the
gearbox which controls the speed to drive the generator. The perfect speed these models are
designed for is approximately 12 to 14ms (medium speed), highest electricity output is achieved
at this speed.

Author: Amy Dempsey
15
How the Turbines produce electricity: wind passes over the blades creating a lift which causes
the rotor to turn. The blades turn the speed shaft inside the outboard engine structure, where
the gears which are connected to the low speed shaft of the rotor with the high speed shaft that
powers the generator. Slow rotation speed of the blades is raised to the high speed of the
generator. The gearbox is used to control the variable speeds of the blade, and to supply a safe
(rpm) revolution per minute. The fast spinning shaft drives the generator to produce electric
energy. The Electricity from the generator is fed into a transformer which then transforms the
power into a safe voltage for the electricity grid. This is then fed into the national grid, which in
turn reduces the load on the main generating stations.
Figure 2.5 represents how the wind turbines produce the electricity, the rotating generator
converts the wind electricity, the transformer increases voltage to transfer to a substation, this is
then transmitted over long distances where the electricity is then transmitted to the grid.
Figure 2.5

Author: Amy Dempsey
16
Picture 2.2(Photograph taken by Amy Dempsey, location Kilivinane Wind Farm)
2 .04 Wind Energy Developments across Ireland
The national Grid is the nation’s energy infrastructure where all energy requirements are
channelled to the areas around Ireland. EirGrid Plc. is a public limited company owned by the
state and provides the service of an electric power transmission operator. The E.S.B Ltd, are
the electrical supply board who are an independent distribution system operator for Ireland
who connect meter services for customers across Ireland. In order for the wind turbines to
produce electricity, they need to be on the national grid. This is part operated by EirGrid and
the E.S.B Networks. (Carton 2010) explains Ireland has plenty of wind farms distributed
around the country in locations where there is plentiful wind currents, but the problem lies with
the small scale of cabling infrastructure which has caused transmission problems.
The development of wind energy in Ireland has meant that by 2007 Ireland had thirty-five
onshore wind energy sites (Rourke 2009). Since then 2007, over the years the wind farming
markets have become larger in terms of more stable. The reason for this is that wind energy is
clean and leads to lower emissions and form a good relationship with the E.U. There are now
198 wind farms established in Ireland across the twenty-six counties (IWEA 2013). (Melia et
al, 2013) claims that Bord na Mona are going to build over six hundred wind turbines in the
midlands (east Offaly) of Ireland, which will lead to be the biggest onshore wind farm in

Author: Amy Dempsey
17
Europe. It is part of a €5 billion clean energy hub scheme, Ireland will not receive any of this
energy as it is adamant that all of this is exported to the U.K. The programme is expected to
begin in 2015 when planning permission is granted. Reading this article one does have to
comment, that is a lot of wind turbines over 20,000 hectare site, and each turbine will stand 100
metres in the air, did the U.K not have enough space or is there no wind blowing there. Ireland
should take cautious steps, because Ireland is a small country and the landscape could become
less refined. Reaping the benefits won’t last for long. (Melia et al, 2013) and (Rourke 2009)
Ireland is only benefiting from looking to get rich quick, when Ireland should be looking into
the future of possible outcomes.
The rest of this topic will challenge the benefits and disadvantages throughout the dissertation.
Main area’s in Ireland where there is onshore wind development range from the breadth of the
country north and south (Cork to Belfast). The area on which most research will be carried out
are local wind developments in Cork, which are Mallow, Dunmanway and Macroom, these
area’s seem to be accessible to gain relevant information and local knowledge.

Author: Amy Dempsey
18
2.05 Is Electricity Production from Wind Turbines, Feasible
An interesting energy study which was set up in Dundalk Institute of Technology on the east
coast of Ireland, (Carton 2010) explains how the college in 2002 took on a challenge to meet
the EU 2020 target by 2010. Their aim was to develop and act as a potential region as a
national demonstration for sustainable energy. A wind turbine was installed on the campus in
2005. In 2006 the results were that the wind turbine produced 33% of the colleges electricity,
the other 67% was imported from the grid with a bill of €237,000.00 but the college saved
€130,000.00. The overall cost of the wind turbine was €1.1 million to install including vat @
13.5%. The carbon footprint of the college has reduced by 1300 tonnes per annum. The
savings the college have on the electricity is €125,000.00, it is claimed the college will have the
turbine paid off in seven years. A problem that is not being discussed is when the wind drops
beyond a certain point or blow faster than the turbine can take on the gear speed, the turbine
shuts down and electricity is not produced. Power then is needed to reboot the turbines and
this can increase costs.
(Connolly 2010) and (Meibom et al 2008) do go in to some detail and explain Ireland has large
wind dispersions on the island of Ireland towards operation, costs and emissions. Ireland has a
wind dispersion of 42% and this would be feasible for Ireland by 2020. (Gardner 2003) the
most costly aspects of wind energy is transmission re-enforcement, wind curtailment, capital
costs and operating costs. A cost related issue (Carton 2010) explains Ireland has a poor
record for losing electricity transmissions due to a poor cabling infrastructure and is not
recognised for having a high voltage grid of an industrialised country such as the bigger game
players i.e. England and France. It is believed though with the right technologies and new
strategies in distributing power these may overcome the unnecessary loss that Ireland
encounter’s at the moment in its energy sector.

Author: Amy Dempsey
19
2.06 Benefits & Non-Beneficial Aspects of Wind Farming in Ireland
Besides aesthetics and locations across Ireland where wind farms are appearing, a drawback of
wind power, has been it is an unreliable source as suggested by a report published in an article
Environment (2007), the wind doesn’t blow too much. (O’Sullivan 2011) doesn’t agree with
this, and he suggests Ireland has one of the best wind and wave resources in Europe. (King
2012) agrees with O’Sullivan, rating Ireland to be in an ideal position to use wind energy from
as a renewable source because of Ireland’s geographical position and climate. (Li et al, 2012)
believes Ireland to have four times wind energy resource than that of the European average.
This has also been established by (Rourke et al, 2009) claiming also that Ireland has four times
the average. When Ireland looks to the east, it faces the Irish Sea and when facing west you
have the Atlantic Ocean. (Carton et al, 2010) suggests Ireland is penetrated all year round
constantly with strong south westerly winds coming from weather systems that travel from the
Atlantic and head east, and these are prime conditions for wind turbines to produce electricity.
From wind energy for Ireland (Timoney et al, 2012) such benefits from wind energy include
Ireland becoming more stable in energy security, the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions
and meeting the E.U targets that were set for reduction in emissions. It is estimated to reach the
2020 target for renewable energies of 40%, €14 billion euro will be invested creating over
10,700 jobs. The article by (Rourke et al, 2009) explains there are a number in Ireland of
barriers in front of wind energy in Ireland. The issue’s in full swing are, environmental
concerns, public health effects on humans, noise, effect on birds, visual impact,
electromagnetic interference and shadow, grid connection, lack of funding from the
government, tax on renewable energy technologies reducing competitiveness of the technology.
Environmental concerns surrounding wind energy has focused around the wind turbines
themselves. (McAuley et al, 2012) explains the visual impact of wind turbines are related
especially in area’s which are sensitive to nature. The turbines can stress out ecosystems, and
can upset aesthetics of the land, the disturbance of flora and fauna is another concern. Birds
have been known to fly into the rotary blades of the turbines and their migration patterns have
become unrecognisable, they have not been able to map out where they are going (Shepherd et
al, 2011). (Broanain 2013) As mentioned earlier The Department of Environment Community
and Local Government want to revise the 2006 Guidelines for wind Energy and this is due to
noise and shadow flicker from wind turbines. The potential health effects towards humans are
shadow flicker which has been speculated to cause humans seizers. There have been no peer-

Author: Amy Dempsey
20
reviewed academic journals to prove of this. The noise from wind turbines has been mixed
reviews. (King et al, 2011) the main growing concerns in Ireland are the negativity towards the
visual impact and noise that relate to wind farms. One is most likely to hear wind turbine noise
when they are at low speeds. They will produce noise, it is inevitable. While it all depends on
how far you are located between the wind turbines. (Van den Berg et al, 2008) claims wind
turbine noise is more of an annoyance. (Pederson and Larsman 2008) describes the more
closer you live near a wind farm it is likely you will hear it constantly and there will be a
probability of annoyance. There should be more measures taken into account when planning a
wind farm near surroundings. Maybe Ireland should consider the Danish rule of thumb.
Picture 2.3(Photograph taken by Amy Dempsey, location Kilivinane Wind Farm)

Author: Amy Dempsey
21
2.07 Other Possible Renewable Energy Sources in Ireland
There are other possible renewable energy sources in Ireland which can be explored for
further renewable energy prospects. These may be (Rourke 2009) Biomass fuel, which are
dead organic materials broken down and also plants specially grown for fuel. Solar energy
which can be converted into thermal energy, geothermal energy which is energy stored beneath
the earth’s surface, wave energy form the oceans waves and lastly hydroelectricity which is water
flowing into electricity. The differences between all the renewable energy sources is a barrier of
their feasibility to construct, extract and continuously contain and produce which ever energy
source may be. The first step towards a 100% renewable energy-system for Ireland (Connolly
et al, 2010) includes a review of the literature on the influence that Ireland has an abundance of
renewable energy sources, ranging from, wind, wave, geothermal, solar and biomass. Here but
a few to name, there are a number of barrier’s up against biomass fuel in Ireland, there is the
uncertainty of availability of resources, Irish Government won’t support it financially, tax’s from
renewable energy technologies reduce the competitiveness of the technology. Solar energy,
backup systems are required in Ireland because of the lack of sun, lack of funding from the
government, grid connection, tax’s from renewable energy technologies reduce the
competitiveness of the technology. Geothermal holds a similar amount of barriers of both solar
and biomass, but geothermal feasibility is unknown as (Connelly et al, 2009) states, geothermal
technology requires approximately the same external ground area as the floor area of the
house.

Author: Amy Dempsey
22
2.08 Summary
Ireland is aware it needs to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions it is producing. Ireland has
signed an agreement with the E.U and must meet the treaty’s requirements by 2020. Wind
energy developments are growing across Ireland, one of the largest developments of wind
energy is to begin in 2015 and it is proposed that this will represent the largest wind farms in
Europe. The feasibility of wind energy has proven to be an investment as the Dundalk Institute
of Technology have carried out research and proved this theory.
The potential health problem that have been speculated and discussed, proof is yet to be
discovered that wind turbines create seizers towards people, if anything they have been proven
to be a hindrance with the noise they can produce from the rotating blades. One does have to
comment is the annoyance side more on the fact of where they are positioned especially if you
are residing not too far from where the turbines are located.
Cautious steps and more research needs to be explored in the areas of ecological systems and
habitats/wild animals, as these might be more effected in the positioning of the wind energy
developments. Finally other renewable energy sources in Ireland are limiting until new
developments of technologies have been developed and established, as solar power is a
potential for some other European countries, but not suited to Ireland as the sun record here is
poor. The country will soon have to focus more on renewable energy forms.
Identification of a viable research questions to be prepared in the next stages of the research.
1. Do wind turbines give off gas emissions.
2. Can Ireland take on the capacity from the future proposed developments.
3. Will tourism be affected, (since it is one of the country’s economic benefits).
4. Can the noise and flicker from the turbines develop into epilepsy in humans.
5. Is it worth clearing natural habitat for developments and then trying to regenerate it, will
this have a serious ecological impact in the future.

Author: Amy Dempsey
23
Chapter 3.
Research Methodology
3.00 Introduction
The main aim of research is to inquire into The Renewable Energy of Wind Farming in
Ireland, a method of generating electricity from onshore wind turbines in Ireland. A
combination of research methods which will be introduced and used throughout will consist of
quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research design. These methods will dictate and
justify the evidence and findings which will be obtained to support the research. Information on
the subject will be made aware and clarified. Recent research suggest, the main concerns
surrounding wind farming in Ireland is the landscape they are situated on, effects on habitat
systems, shadow flicker, noise and vibration the wind turbines are producing. While other
sources of information suggest that Ireland will benefit from wind energy. Most recently
claimed by Dr Brian Motherway on the 18th
of February 2014, a CEO of Sustainable Energy
Authority Ireland, which in the last five years renewable energy has saved Ireland € 1 billion
euro in imported fossil fuels and emissions had been reduced by 12 million tonnes. Ireland at
present spends €6.5 billion euro a year on importing fossil fuels.
Research methods and findings will help conclude in representing the argumentative negative
and positive aspects of wind farms in Ireland and source other renewable energies of which
Ireland may have to offer (Scannell 2011). Other key objectives where research will be guided
is producing a theoretical understanding of the installation process of wind turbines, to
investigate and locate developments across Ireland, generate an annalistic approach, exploring
the industrial side and domestic production of electricity for private use. The following
research methods will now be explained and why and how they will be demonstrated.

Author: Amy Dempsey
24
Figure 3.1
Figure (3.1) represents four steps in which the research approaches will be carried out
throughout the dissertation. Each research method from 1 to 4 will be explained in how these
methods will generate the flow of research through the dissertation.
3.02 Research (Philosophy)
The research philosophy will be the development of the assumptions and the way the research
is viewed and analysed throughout. It will be the knowledge which has been digested, and then
to develop that knowledge further in the particular aim of the dissertation. The development of
the background research in the dissertation is developing an understanding of Ireland’s naivety
to think wind energy is Ireland’s solutions towards the renewable energy sector. A standing
point of method research which will be applied is Positivism.
i. Positivism
The positivism approach will consist of collecting general information and data from
academic peer-reviewed journals, charts and diagrams, which will lead to cause and
effect. Observations will be made on the social and reality of the aim. Here this will
then lead to building other possible solutions which will rectify and remedy the
objectives of wind energy that is being claimed in the thesis. (Saunders et al, 2009)
Positivism Realism &
Interpretism
Deductive & Inductive
Survey &Case Study
Interviews
Questionnaires
1. Research Philosophy
2. Research Approaches
3. Research Strategies
4. Data collection methods

Author: Amy Dempsey
25
ii. Realism
Realism approach is the reality of truth, it is assuming scientific approaches as similar to
those of positivism development of knowledge by collecting data and understanding it.
There are two types of realism, direct and critical. Direct is based on what you see is
what you get and how we portray and experience. This has been applied when
interviews were carried out on site near wind farms in County Cork. Being on site and
visualising and gaining a real sense of what’s going on. Critical realism is portraying a
substitution for what is actual fact or real, it is built on illusion and not adequate
information. A survey of 15 questions was applied and 97 participants took part, from
their answers graphs and conclusions were determined
iii. Interpretivism
Interpretivism research philosophy is the ability to understand someone else’s theory
instead of one’s own. It’s about putting yourself into someone else’s research of the
subject and understanding their point of view for what they are trying to portray across.
This type of philosophy is a more appropriate method in the business or market
managing world, and the renewable energy sector is becoming a big market in trading
says (Farrell, 2014).

Author: Amy Dempsey
26
Figure 3.2 Saunders and Lewis
The figure (3.2) represents a research onion. It is a designed map to help aid, in the research
studies throughout the dissertation. The research methods consist of layers just like an onion
which gradually will be peeled back to get to the main core to conduct interviews and survey.
3.03 Research Approaches
i. Deductive
This approach is testing the theory based on scientific facts. It is developing the theory
through research and putting it through its paces or a severe test. The deductive way is
testing the hypothesis, expressing and examining the outcomes of the hypothesis, this may
then confirm the theory of may need more research to be applied. The qualitative
approach applied allows the examination of the hypothesis to be proved.
ii. Inductive
The inductive approach is applying and comprehending the meanings people attach to
events or happenings. It brings a near understanding of research in circumstances of an
event which leads to a gathering of information to be used of qualitative data. A flexible
approach is more intertwined into the research, if the research changes then this can lead to

Author: Amy Dempsey
27
an importance towards the research as it develops. This approach will complement when
gathering information based on charts from survey.
Quantitative
Continuous research for collecting numeric data and analysing numbers mathematically. It
relates to quantity. (Saunders et, al 2009) suggest quantitative is the analysis tic approach, for
graphs, charts and statistical to indicate information. Quantitative is having research that relates
to numbers, counting, statistic and measuring to collect hard data with pre-determined
questions with only certain limited amount of answers. ‘It involves the collection and analysis of
highly structured data in the positivist tradition’. (Bowing 2007) cited in (McDonald 2009). The
survey carried out in this dissertation provided the total percentage of people whom took part
in each question. This data was then gathered and drawn up in charts to give the reader a visual
of what the data meant. This method was applied because it gave the reader a simpler way to
analyse and interpret ate the results.
Qualitative
Qualitative research is used when there is very little known about the topic. People’s own
research, understanding what they are talking about, and interpret ate into one’s own
understanding, by examining views and perceptions such as words and pictures. Qualitative
research method leads to questions that are those that have more quality information more
than nonmaterial, on what people do, how they feel, what their opinion is. Qualitative research
aims to study people in their natural settings and to focus on people’s experiences’ (Walsh
2001) cited in (Mc Donald 2009). This method is inductive as it bases ideas and perspective
feelings whether or not what is being investigated, as (Charoenruk 2013) suggests, in the
qualitative method of research there is no reason to quantify the knowledge or information
found.

Author: Amy Dempsey
28
Dissimilarities among Quantitative and Qualitative Research
Quantitative Qualitative
Meanings from numbers Meanings through words
Results transferred into data Classified into a category
Data transferred into diagrams or statistics Analysis tic approach of belief or view
Figure 3.3
The figure (3.3) represents how quantitative and qualitative research methods differ from each
other.
Mixed methods
Is a combination of both, of the above methods in researching to provide a good strong case in
what is trying to be achieved through the research.
Figure 3.4
Figure (3.4) represents the qualitative research method, with three key headings under the
epistemological approach. With the collaboration of the three key factors, positivism,
interpretive and critical, the epistemological approach will lead to the investigation of what
illustrates and supports from what the research is trying to prove in the dissertation. This
Qualitative method of research is to provide a flow throughout the thesis.
QUALITATIVE
POSITIVISM INTERPRETIVE CRITICAL

Author: Amy Dempsey
29
3.04 Research Strategies
i. Survey
A survey in a research strategy will consist of gathering information on issues on the
related subject which cannot be all seen at once such as way in which people see or
perceive the subject. This can then lead to qualitative or quantitative data.
ii. Case Study
For the second research strategy, a case study will represent and focus strongly on one
or a few observations with looking to provide a detailed account of events which are
being researched in that of pin pointed precision. The case being chosen by the
researcher can be a person or situation. Case studies are a more poplar approach of
strategy when dealing with dissertations (McDonald 2009). When carrying out a case
study, it must be carefully planned and one must be able to justify their choice of
selection.
Figure 3.5 (5 Point rating Scale based on (Johnson 2012) concept.)
(Johnson 2012) refers to using a technique towards surveys by using a five point rating scale as
the answers for the respondent. The questions are put forward to the respondent and they have
five possible answers they may choose from.A similar structured survey will be drawn up using
Johnson’s approach for possible answer choices.
1. STRONGLY
DISAGREE
2.
DISAGREEE
3. NEUTRAL
5. STRONGLY
AGREE
4. AGREE

Author: Amy Dempsey
30
3.05 Data Collection Methods
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is the most used tool when collecting information. A questionnaire is
used for gaining information and developing that information into research questions. It
is a given that one must be careful when designing a questionnaire as they do not want
to come across as being bias, negative and always to remain impartial. There are a
number of questions that can be asked and these are closed question, forced question
and multiple choice question a few but to name. A closed question consists of a ‘yes or
‘no answer, a forced question is i.e., are you male or female? The multiple choice
question then provides the respondents with a number of answers i.e., ‘What kind of
person are you? A) Ambitious B) Strong willed C) Hard working or D) Other. The
advantages of using a questionnaire is it is cheap, they can be distributed efficiently,
people can remain anonymous whomever are completing them and it can be a straight
forward process.
Interviews
An interview is a method of collecting data is a way of producing a series of questions
whom will be directed at particular professional respondents. There are two forms of
interviews in which they may be structured to give the efficient benefits towards the
research and these are as follows:
a) Structural Interview: this type of interview has a format of asking all the
respondents in the exact same order as the previous respondents. This type
of interview is beneficial when interviewing a group, whom share similar
interests, or for the researcher who has great knowledge on the subject as
the questions would flow more easily when asking the respondent.
b) Unstructured Interview: this is based on a qualitative detailed data approach.
Instead of a formal approach of having questions laid out in order, the
interviewer will set topics for the interviewee to respond to as they will. This
is a beneficial way of interviewing someone as it will hold a more detailed

Author: Amy Dempsey
31
approach when the interviewee is discussing topics with a more focused and
relaxed approach. The advantages of this approach, is the interviewer can
get the interviewee to explain their answers and also the interviewer will be
able to observe if the interviewee understands the questions. The interviews
which were carried out in this dissertation were of an unstructured interview.
This form was chosen because it was a more relaxed approach when
interviewing the participants, both for the interviewer and interviewee.
Ethical Issues
When addressing the surveys and interviews, the participants were fully informed of what the
study entailed, what their participation involved, how long the study will take towards the
surveys or interviews and what impact it will have on them. Once the people whom are
involved in this study knew exactly what it is about, a consent form was presented to them to
proceed with the study. The participants in this research were given an information sheet in
clear understanding context; the participants were given 24 hours to consider taking part in the
research study.
Once the participant decided they wanted to be part of the research study, a consent form was
obtained from them. A standard written consent form was supplied to the participant/s for
them to sign.
Even though the participants had signed the consent form and agreed to participate they always
have an option to withdraw from the research study if they wish, and if they ask for their data
not to be included which has already been collected then this must be destroyed.

Author: Amy Dempsey
32
Data protection issues
1. In order to protect sensitive personal data throughout the research it is recommended that
participants were given identity numbers or codes so they can remain anonymous and
confidential.
2. Names and contact details of the participants will be stored on the researchers own
personalised computers so only they can access them.
3. The data collected, questionnaires, interviews and tapes will be coded so they remain
anonymous and locked away where only the researcher can gain access.
4. All data and publications stored on the researchers computer will be locked and can only
be accessed through their password
5. Other Ethical considerations need to be given to language barriers; it is unethical to exclude
participants whose first language is not English. It will be establish whether non-English
speaking people can take part in the study with them being able to understand the consent
forms and information provided. Minority groups must be equally represented in the
research study i.e. blind and deaf participants. Sensitive Issues is another ethical topic
which may be dealt with, it will be made aware and demonstrated that when participants
recollect/describe bad experiences and discuss sensitive information, then the participants
will be asked would the like to continue the research study, if no then the data collected
may be not used and must be destroyed.

Author: Amy Dempsey
33
3.06 Justified Methods for Research
The research methods chosen for the thesis consisted of a mixture of quantitative and
qualitative. Critical research and analysis was given to peer-reviewed academic journals and
information was obtained through field work studies including a collection of interviews,
questionnaires and surveys, which determine the problems which incur with shadow flicker,
noise and vibration which has been claimed to come from the turbines.
Data was collected to help generate statistical data for objectives i.e., collection of numerous
wind turbines located across Ireland, employment, other renewable energies, effect of wind
turbines and are people aware about the Kyoto Protocol, Irelands signing of a treaty to reduce
its gas emissions in Brussels. The information supplied and then interpreted from these
methods of research, charts will be represented to give the reader an overall look at the data to
support documented evidence in the findings produced.
The Cork Institute of Technology Library will play a vital role in gathering information so an
interpretation and findings can draw conclusions related to this dissertation. The Colleges
online data base has a vast supply of information that is required to write a thesis on the given
topic.
A key qualitative source or research will be from the interviews carried out with a combination
of face to face unstructured interviews. A series of questions will be put forth to the
interviewees in relation to the findings encountered throughout the research stage of the thesis.
A vital role towards quantitative research will be obtaining data and information which will
support the interviews and surveys, where this can be incorporated into the dissertation
objectives when questions are to arise through research and findings.

Author: Amy Dempsey
34
3.07 Conclusion
The above methods for obtaining information to support this document for each chapter have
been chosen because they have been able to reveal supporting evidence towards the topic and
chapters chosen to write this thesis. Such information has come from a survey filled out by a
professional people who are reachable and have a great interest in the subject.
Academic peer reviewed journals have been provided by the college library and the majority of
the authors are outside the country, but access to e-mailing them has been adequate, and they
have responded promptly.
Interviews have been carried out, and the interviewees were Mr Pat Farrell of the Cork County
Council Energy Sector, Mr Leonard Draper of Kilivinane Wind Farm and Dr Martin Keely
whom was a managing director of the Lough Allen Natural Gas Company. The chosen three
candidates were picked for their expertise because they all work within the energy sector. The
information gathered from the interviews will be used to justify and prove the hypothesis theory
in this dissertation.
Another source for information has led to the request for access to records under The
Freedom of Information Act 1997. This is a tedious process to obtain information from the
Government as they charge €15.00 euro for an application for non-personal information and
the information one requires can be delayed as it takes up to 10 days before a response is put
through and they must verify that the person requesting the information is true. Application has
been sent forth, and is still waiting on a response to obtain information the Irish Government
may have on wind farming in Ireland. These studies will lead on to exploring information to
support this thesis and to apply true meaning to this dissertation.

Author: Amy Dempsey
35
Chapter 4.
Collection of Evidence
4.0 Background
Recent findings from peer-reviewed journals suggest there is lacking evidence and
documentation supporting the effects on wind farming in Ireland. A letter produced dated the
4th
of July 2013 by the Irish Environment, Community and Local Government, wrote and
called for a review of wind energy guidelines, an update for planning authorities. This meant
that the previous wind energy guidelines published in 2006 needs to be reviewed in relation to
noise, proximity and shadow flicker. The letter is inviting proposals from qualified profession
for desk study of peer reviewed studies, to prove these effects. As stated earlier there is a need
for Ireland to change its consumption of energy means to meet the Kyoto Protocol agreement.
By looking to renewables energies Ireland can reduce its emissions and become an energy
sustainable country. This chapter represents a collection of evidence and participants whom
produced information and knowledge to meet the aim, hypothesis and objectives throughout
this dissertation.
4.01 Introduction
Evidential support towards the subject of ‘The Renewable Energy of Wind Farming in Ireland’
has been conveyed through the research and study methods for the process of the collection of
data. The data which has been obtained has come from sources of peer-reviewed journals,
books, interviews, surveys and documentaries. The Cork Institute of Technology online library
(Cork Institute of Technology, 2004) has been a strong influence in the role of collecting and
interpreting information from research related to the topic. The online data base the college
provides for students whom are attending had a great quantity of information which aided to
write this dissertation. There was a vast amount of information on wind farming, the peer
reviewed journals authors weren’t just from Ireland but ranged from across the world.

Author: Amy Dempsey
36
4.02 Collection of evidence
The questions for the survey were thought and planned out with the information obtained from
peer-reviewed academic journals. The survey was conducted before the interviews. This was
done on purpose because the information received from the survey would help enhance the
questions which were going to be put forth to the interviewees in the future.
Questions for the survey were put into motion while keeping the objectives of this dissertation
still in mind. The survey was created on a website (Survey Monkey, 2005). This web site took
step by step proceedings in how one would create their own survey professionally and then link
it to websites where participants could answer the survey anonymously. A small fee of €20.00
was also paid. Paying this fee helped when collecting results by automatically putting the data
into charts, which would benefit substantially when moving on towards the next chapter of the
analysis of evidence and presentation. The number of participants whom took part were 97 and
two participants skipped the survey and did not reply. The survey was made up of 15
questions. These questions were created on a basis to meet the aim and objectives. The
questions were presented to participants i.e. building contractors, designers, wind farmers,
clients, environmentalists groups, energy suppliers and the environmental protection agency. It
was important to keep a balance between people whom worked in the wind energy sector and
people whom weren’t and were working in the opposition side.
Information from peer-reviewed journals and the 97 participants whom took part in the survey,
gave a foundation building block to create questions which were to be put forward to
participants whom took part in the interviews in which were to be carried out. There was three
participants whom took part in the interviews. They were, Mr Pat Farrell of Enniscarra Cork
County Council Energy sector, Mr Leonard Draper a wind farmer of Kilvinane Wind Farm
near Dunmanway Cork and Dr Martin Keeley a former managing director of The Lough Allen
Natural Gas Company whom had taken part in another interview for a previous dissertation on
hydraulic fracking. The three interviews were unstructured interviews. All three interviewees
were recorded ranging from 20 minutes long to 50 minutes long. The recordings then were
listened back over and Trans scripted down from what each interviewee had said. This was a
tedious process in collecting evidence but information and knowledge was gained to reinforce

Author: Amy Dempsey
37
the hypothesis of the dissertation. The three candidates were chosen because of their expertise
and knowledge within the energy sector and two out of the three participants were local based
in County Cork.
Questions which were put forth to them were a combination of how a wind farm is developed
and what procedures one must go through i.e. planning, environmental impact statements,
construction and then to the end product when the wind farm is producing electricity.
There was a number of challenges encountered when trying to gather participants for the
interviews. Some participants refused an interview as they were weary of whom would they be
talking to and where their information might end up. Another participant when taking part in
the interview wanted to know too would their information, have any reflection or lead to any
impact towards the company of where they work.
The majority of participants whom took part in the interviews were very obliging when they
read the information sheets and consent. The participants were locally based in Cork, and
travelling to and fro was not a problem when the interviews were to take place. To obtain the
right balance throughout this dissertation, it was extremely important to hear both sides of the
arguments towards wind energy in Ireland, in order to accomplish this, one had to agree when
meeting with a number of participant’s that they were either beneficial towards wind farming or
they were the opposition towards wind farming all depending on whom one was meeting.
4.03 Conclusion
When carrying out these forms of collecting evidence and applying a data analysis, it was
important to continuously keep in mind that the information being collected was meeting the
objectives throughout the dissertation. The survey and the three interviews which were carried
out, has increased the flow of information while trying to prove the theme throughout this
dissertation. It is now in the next chapter (five) that the analysis of data and information can
now be put into place while meeting the objectives from the first chapter.

Author: Amy Dempsey
38
Chapter 5.
Analysis of Evidence and Presentation
5.00 Introduction
The following survey was created and opened on the 16th
of July 2014 and closed on the 16th
of
August 2014 with the format aid of (Survey Monkey, 2005). A total figure of 97 participants
took part in the survey. The survey consisted of 15 questions with a combination of answers.
Why this survey was carried out, was to challenge the theory and objectives throughout the
dissertation. The data provided from the survey has been a mixed reaction and a 50/50%
opinion towards a majority of the questions asked.

Author: Amy Dempsey
39
5.01 Survey Results and Analysis
Q1. What is your gender?
Answered: 92 Skipped: 5
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Answer Choices Responses
Female 41.30% 38
Male 58.70% 54
Total 92
TABLE 5.1The number of Males and Females whom took part in the survey
Question one of the survey gives a breakdown of how many male and females took part in the
survey. Out of 92 participants, there was a total of 41.30% = 38 of females took part and
58.70%= 54 were males whom took part. 5 participants skipped this question.
Female
Male

Author: Amy Dempsey
40
Q2. What is your age?
18 to 24
25 to 34
35 to 44
45 to 54
55 to 64
65 to 74
75 or older
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
AnswerChoices Responses
18 to 24 6.32% 6
25 to 34 25.26% 24
35 to 44 26.32% 25
45 to 54 23.16% 22
55 to 64 12.63% 12
65 to 74 4.21% 4
75 or older 2.11% 2
Total 95
TABLE 5.2 The Age groups of participants who took part in the survey
Question two represents the age of participants whom took part. There was a total of
95 participants whom took part and two skipped. The highest age group whom took
part were between 35 to 44 years of age at 26.32%= 25, then 25 to 34 years were at
25.26% = 24 participants, 45 to 54 years of age at 23.16%= 22 participants, 55 to 64
years of age at 12.63% =12 participants, 65 to 74 years of age at 4.21%= 4 participants
and the lowest age group whom took part were age between 75 and older at 2.11%= 2
participants. It is shown the majority of age group of whom took part was between 35
to 44 years of age.

Author: Amy Dempsey
41
Q3. How would you describe your stance on the renewable energy of
Wind Power?
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Strongly Against 27.66% 26
Against 6.38% 6
Neutral 9.57% 9
Support 30.85% 29
Strongly Support 25.53% 24
Total 94
TABLE 5.3 Participants stance on renewable energy of Wind Power
Question three is a representation of how people would describe their stance on the renewable
energy of wind power. A total of 94 participants took part and 3 skipped. The highest pole
showed 30.85% = 29 of participants support wind energy, strongly against was 27.66% = 26
participants, strongly support was 25.53% = 24 participants, neutral was at 6.38% = 6
participants and the lowest figure showed that 6.38% were against wind power. The marginal
difference between supporting and strongly against was at 3.19%. Support towards wind energy
power is at a higher figure than the rest of the other four choices, therefore the majority of
participants were in favour of wind power.
S trongly
Agains t
Agains t
Ne utra l
S upport
S trongly
S upport

Author: Amy Dempsey
42
Q4. How aware are you of the Irish Government renewable energy targets?
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Very aware 41.05% 39
Aware 28.42% 27
Slight awareness 20.00% 19
Notaware 10.53% 10
Total 95
TABLE 5.4 the number of participants of whom are aware of the Irish Governments Renewable
energy targets.
Question four was to establish how aware people are of the Irish Government energy targets.
A total of 95 participants took part and two skipped. The highest pole figure came in at 41.05%
= 39 participants, this meant that people were very aware of the Governments energy targets.
28.42% = 27 participants were aware, slight awareness came in at 20.00% =19 participants and
finally he lowest percentage of people came in at 10.53%= 10 participants are claiming that they
were not aware of the governments energy targets.
Very aw are
Aw are
Slight
aw areness
Not aw are

Author: Amy Dempsey
43
Q5. Are you aware that the Irish Government signed a treaty (Kyoto Protocol) within
the European Union that it would reduce 20% of its greenhouse gas emissions by
2020?
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Very aware 47.37% 45
Aware 31.58% 30
Slight awareness 11.58% 11
Not aware 9.47% 9
Total 95
TABLE 5.5 the awareness of the Irish Government signing a treaty (Kyoto Protocol)
Question five, 95 participants took part and two skipped. The highest figure was 47.37%= 45
participants were very aware that the Irish Government signed a treaty (Kyoto Protocol) within
the European Union that it would reduce 20% of its greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. 31.58%
= 30 participants were also too aware of this, 11.58%= 11 participants were slightly aware, and
finally at a low figure of 9.47% = 9 participants were not aware of the treaty the Government
had signed.
Very aw are
Aw are
Slight
aw areness
Not aw are

Author: Amy Dempsey
44
Q6. Do you agree wind farms can reduce Ireland's CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) gas
emissions?
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Don't Agree 35.42% 34
Agree 48.96% 47
Not Sure 15.63% 15
Total 96
TABLE 5.6 Can wind farms reduce Ireland’s CO2 Emissions
In question six 96 participants took part and 1 skipped. 48.96% = 47 participants’ agreed that
wind farms can reduce Ireland's CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) gas emissions, while 35.42% = 34
participants did not agree and 15.63% = 15 participants were not sure. The majority of
participants do agree wind power can reduce Ireland’s CO2 gas emissions.
Don't Agree
Agree
ot Sure

Author: Amy Dempsey
45
Q7. Do you think Wind Farms are a safe form of technology for the production of
energy?
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Yes 52.13% 49
No 34.04% 32
Notsure 13.83% 13
Total 94
TABLE 5.7 the responses of Wind Turbines being a safe form of technology.
In question seven 94 participants took part and three skipped. 52.13% = 49 participants said
yes that wind farms are a safe form of technology for the production of energy, 34.04% = 32
participant said no, wind farms are not a safe form of technology for the production of energy
and 13.83% = 13 participants were not sure. The highest figure states that people do believe
that wind farms are a safe form of technology for energy harvesting.
Yes
No
Not sure

Author: Amy Dempsey
46
Q8. Do you think wind farms provide employment?
0 % 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
TABLE 5.8 the responses of, do wind turbines create jobs
In question eight there was 95 participants took part and two skipped. 45.26%= 43
participants don’t agree wind farms provide hundreds of jobs. 37.89%= 36 participants
agreed that wind farms do provide hundreds of jobs and 16.84%= 16 participants were not
sure.
Don't Agree 45.26% 43
Agree 37.89% 36
Not sure 16.84% 16
Total 95
D o n 't A g r e e
A g r e e
N o t s u r e

Author: Amy Dempsey
47
Q9. Do you think increased use of wind power is or not a realistic way of
combating climate change?
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
TABLE 5.9 Represents is wind power a realistic way or not of combating climate change
In question nine 46.15% = 42 participants believe that the increased use of wind power is not a
realistic way of combating climate change. 42.86%= 39 participants believe it is a realistic way to
increase the use of wind power as this would be a way of combating climate change. 10.99% =
10 participants did not know.
Realistic 42.86% 39
Not Realistic 46.15% 42
Don't know 10.99% 10
Total 91
R e a lis tic
N ot R e a lis tic
D on't k now

Author: Amy Dempsey
48
Q10 .Do you think wind power in Ireland is a reliable source of energy
because the wind is always blowing somewhere?
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
TABLE 5.10 is the wind always blowing somewhere in Ireland
There was 93 participants took part in question 10 and 3 participants skipped. A response of
53.76% = 50 participants agreed that wind power in Ireland is a reliable source of energy
because the wind is always blowing somewhere. 36.56%= 34 participants disagreed that wind
power in Ireland is a reliable source of energy because the wind is not always blowing
somewhere, and the third result was 9.68% = 9 participants were not sure.
Agree 53.76% 50
Disagree 36.56% 34
Notsure 9.68% 9
Total 93
A g re e
D is a g re e
N o t s u re

Author: Amy Dempsey
49
Q11. How often would you see a wind Turbine?
Every day
Every week
Every month
Every 6
months
Every year or
over
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Every day 43.75% 42
Every week 31.25% 30
Every month 13.54% 13
Every 6 months 10.42% 10
Every year or
over
1.04% 1
Total 96
TABLE 5.11 how often one would see a turbine
In question 11, 96 participants took part and one skipped. The participants were asked how
often they would see wind turbines. The highest score was 43.75% = 42 participants seeing
turbines every day, every week was 31.25%= 30 participants, every month 13.54%=13
participants, every six months 10.42%= 10 participants and every year or over was the lowest at
1.04% = 1 participant.

Author: Amy Dempsey
50
Q12. How would you rate the following aspects of how wind turbines affect
you?
Very negative Negative Neutral Positive Very Positive
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
s
e rc e y...
e
m p o s
m p one c ogy
Visual appearance
of turbines
Shadow Flicker
created by turbines
Noise created by
the turbines
Impact on birds
Impact on ecology
Impact on health
Impact on house
prices
Impact on energy
prices
Economic impact
Impact on local
environment
Impact on local
people

Author: Amy Dempsey
51
TABLE 5.12 How the following aspects would affect the participants
Question 12 represents a combination of short questions of how the following aspects of
wind turbines affect the participants.
Visual appearance of turbines, 96 participants took part and highest score was 31.25% = 30
participants said they were neutral on this.
Shadow flicker, 95 participants took part and the highest score was 45.26% = 43
respondents believing to be neutral on this question and the second highest score was
35.79%= 34 participants believe shadow flicker from turbines to have a very negative affect.
Noise created by turbines had a response of 95 participants and the highest score was
41.05% =39 participants said they had a neutral effect towards them. 36.84% = 35
participants believe that noise from turbines has a very negative effect towards them.
Very
negative
Negative Neutral Positive Very
Positive
Total
Respondents
I. Visual
appearance
of Turbine
28.13%
27
16.67%
16
31.25%
30
14.58%
14
10.42%
10 96
II. Shadow
flicker
created by
Turbine
35.79%
34
14.74%
14
45.26%
43
4.21%
4
0.00%
0 95
III. Noise
created by
Turbine
36.84%
35
16.84%
16
41.05%
39
5.26%
5
1.05%
1 95
IV. Impact on
Birds
32.29%
31
22.92%
22
36.46%
35
5.21%
5
3.13%
3 96
V. Impact on
ecology
29.17%
28
16.67%
16
33.33%
32
14.58%
14
7.29%
7 96
VI. Impact on
health
33.33%
32
9.38%
9
36.46%
35
13.54%
13
8.33%
8 96
VII. Impact on
house prices
40.00%
38
24.21%
23
21.05%
20
11.58%
11
4.21%
4 95
VIII. Impact on
energy
prices
32.29%
31
7.29%
7
12.50%
12
31.25%
30
17.71%
17 96
IX. Economic
Impact
29.47%
28
4.21%
4
24.21%
23
25.26%
24
16.84%
16 95
X. Impact on
local
environment
38.95%
37
14.74%
14
15.79%
15
23.16%
22
7.37%
7 95
XI. Impact on
local people
39.36%
37
13.83%
13
24.47%
23
14.89%
14
7.45%
7 94

Author: Amy Dempsey
52
The impact on birds, 96 candidates responded and the highest score was neutral at 36.46%
= 35 and the second highest score was wind turbines had a very negative effect towards
birds at a score of 32.29% = 31 participants.
Do wind turbines have an impact on ecology? 96 candidates took part, and the highest
score was 33.33% = 32 saying that it was neutral. The second highest score was it had very
negative impact at 29.17%=28 participants said.
Would turbines have an impact on health? 96 took part and the highest score was neutral
at 36.46%= 35 participants. The second highest score was at 33.33%= 32 participants said it
would have a very negative impact on health.
Would the turbines have an impact on house prices? 95 participants took part. The
highest score was at 40.00%= 38 participants believe turbine would affect house prices. The
second highest score was 24.21%= 23 participants said it would have a negative impact on
house prices.
Will wind farming have an impact on energy prices? 96 took part and the highest score was
32.29%= 31 participants claiming it would have a negative impact towards energy prices.
The second highest score was at 31.25%= 30 participants said it would have a positive
impact towards energy prices.
Could wind farming have an impact on economics? 95 participants took part. The highest
score was 29.47% = 28 participants said it would have a very negative impact, the second
highest score was at 25.26% = 24 participants said it would have a positive impact on the
economy.
Would wind farming have an impact on the local environment? 95 participants took part
and the highest score was at 38.95% = 37 participants said it would have a very negative
impact. The second highest score was 23.16% =22 participants said it would have a positive
impact.
The impact of wind farms towards the local people? 94 participants took part. The highest
score was 39.36% = 37 participants said it will have a very negative impact on locals. The
second highest score was 24.47% = 23 participant were neutral on this.

Author: Amy Dempsey
53
Q13. If a wind farm was located near to the proximity of where you lived, how
would it affect your opinion towards this type of energy production?
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Location would have no impact on my opinion of wind farms 44.21% 42
Support wind energy but not in close proximity of where I live 25.26% 24
Total negative towards wind power despite the location 30.53% 29
Total 95
TABLE 5.13 Living with wind farms in close proximity
Question 13, 95 participants took part and two skipped. The highest score was 44.21% = 43
participants said location would have no impact on my opinion of wind farms if a wind farm
was located near to the proximity of where they lived. 30.53% = 29 participants differ from this
saying they are total negative towards wind power despite the location. While 25.26% = 24
participants believe in supporting wind energy but not in close proximity of where they live.
Location would
have no impa...
Support wind
energy but n...
Total negative
towards wind...

Author: Amy Dempsey
54
Q14 .There are two main locations for wind turbines; offshore (in the sea) and onshore
(on land). Which do you think is the best location for channelling wind energy?
Offshore 71.76% 61
Onshore 15.29% 13
Not sure 12.94% 11
Total 85
TABLE 5.14 Two main locations of where wind turbines are situated
Question 14, 85 participants took part and 12 skipped. The participants were asked what
choice of wind power method of location would they think would be best suited for channelling
this energy? The highest score was 71.76%= 61 participants said offshore wind farming,
onshore wind farming scored 15.29% = 13 participants said and 12.94%=11 were unsure of
offshore or onshore.
Offshore
Onshore
Not sure
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Author: Amy Dempsey
55
Q15. Which is your preferred method of renewable energy production? (Starting from
your first choice)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Total Average
Ranking
Wind
energy
26.60%
25
22.34%
21
5.32%
5
7.45%
7
5.32%
5
14.89%
14
18.09%
17 94 4.40
Solar
energy
29.47%
28
25.26%
24
17.89%
17
7.37%
7
7.37%
7
9.47%
9
3.16%
3 95 5.21
Tidal
energy
8.51%
8
25.53%
24
32.98%
31
13.83%
13
12.77%
12
4.26%
4
2.13%
2 94 4.82
Wave
energy
10.53%
10
12.63%
12
13.68%
13
36.84%
35
15.79%
15
7.37%
7
3.16%
3 95 4.31
Geo-
thermal
3.16%
3
4.21%
4
17.89%
17
23.16%
22
38.95%
37
12.63%
12
0.00%
0 95 3.72
Biomass 15.79%
15
5.26%
5
9.47%
9
7.37%
7
15.79%
15
41.05%
39
5.26%
5 95 3.54
Nuclear
power
6.38%
6
5.32%
5
3.19%
3
4.26%
4
4.26%
4
10.64%
10
65.96%
62 94 2.10
TABLE 5.15 .Which renewable energies do participants favour
Question 15, a total of 95 participants took part and 2 skipped. The participants were asked to
place in order their preferred choice of renewable energy. The highest ranking was solar energy
at 5.21, tidal energy at 4.82, wind energy at 4.40, wave energy at 4.31, and geo-thermal at 3.72,
and biomass at 3.54 and nuclear at 2.10. The results show participants favour solar energy out
of the six renewable energies.
W in d e n e r g y
S o la r e n e rg y
Tid a l e n e r g y
W a v e e n e r g y
G e o -th e rm a l
B io m a s s
N u c le a r p o w e r

Author: Amy Dempsey
56
5.02 Interview Analysis
Introduction
The following interviews were carried out on the three professional’s whom are working in an
environment to do with the Energy Sector’s, Wind Farming Sector Mr Leonard Draper and
Fossil Fuel Energy Sector Dr Martin Keeley and the Cork County Council Energy Department
Mr Pat Farrell. Two of the interviews were carried out face to face in County Cork, while the
third interview was carried out using the technology form of via Skype to England. It has
already been mentioned in chapter four while carrying out these interviews and asking
questions to the professionals, it was important to make sure the objectives throughout the
dissertation were being met when analysis was given to the three interviews.
The interviews were unstructured and the questions were asked randomly as the participants
talked. There was a feeling that the interviewees felt more at ease with this method as one
interview lasted over 50 minutes. These questions were compiled from information obtained
through peer-reviewed academic journals and the survey which was carried out. These
questions were asked to meet the objectives through the dissertation and to obtain a constant
flow of information to prove the hypothesis.
The questions presented to the participants were as follows:
1. What are the first steps when developing a wind farm?
2. How long does it take to build a wind farm?
3. What are the costs of building a wind farm?
4. What is a wind turbine made of?
5. How large are modern wind turbines?
6. What is the lifespan of a wind turbine?
7. Why do some turbines have two and others have three blades?
8. Do you agree Ireland has an abundance of wind to support this renewable energy?
9. How much electricity can one turbine generate?
10. Can wind energy deliver enough electricity to Ireland?

Author: Amy Dempsey
57
11. Is wind power good for the economy and can it increase employment rates?
12. What are the benefits to a landowner?
13. How does a wind farm benefit the local community?
14. Are wind farms compatible with wild life?
15. Are wind turbines noisy?
16. Do they create shadow flicker?
17. Do wind farms affect property values?
18. How long has wind been used as a source of energy in Ireland?
19. Will wind power eventually replace conventional fossil fuel power?
20. Can wind energy reduce CO2 emissions?
5.03 Information obtained from interviews while meeting the objectives
Objective 1
To produce a theoretical understanding of wind energy and the installation process concerned
with Wind Turbines/Farms in Ireland.
According to (Draper, 2014) wind power has been a source in Ireland since the late 90’s. He
believes the first wind farm was set up in Ireland in 1998. When interviewees were asked about
the first steps of planning a wind farm both (Draper, 2014) and (Farrell, 2014) agreed that you
must first assess the site, making sure you are not in a nature reserve and that you have the
correct wind speeds. Poor ground conditions will determine a wind farm (Farrell, 2014) also
suggested. (Draper, 2014) The average foundation depth for a wind turbine depending on the
ground condition will range from 2 to 3 metres. The turbine is made up of a steel tower
structure, the blades are made of fibreglass and the cell or box which sits at the top of the tower
is also made of fibreglass and this contains the generator and gearbox.

Author: Amy Dempsey
58
(Farrell, 2014) Kerry County Council have a rule of thumb when installing wind turbines within
a close proximity of each other and neighbouring house’s, they must be at least 1 kilometre
apart he claims. (Draper, 2014) House location was only 160 metres away from a turbine. This
rule does not seemed to be applied in County Cork.
(Draper, 2014) Planning permission is a big part of designing a wind farm. Between applying
for planning permission, producing the correct Environment Impact Statements by assessing
the site, the process of planning permission being granted and then construction phase of the
turbines. (Farrell, 2014) when carry out this large scale of construction works and getting the
turbines from point ‘A’ to point ‘B’ the developer will also have to apply for the transportation
planning application, because of the turbines physicality the transportation of the turbines can
be an issue when transporting through small towns. (Draper, 2014) Claims it has taken him six
to ten years to develop and build the wind farm and it was gaining the planning permission
which was the most time consuming. The average lifespan of a turbine is 25 but (Draper, 2014)
believes a turbine can keep working indefinitely provided it is being updated with the latest
technology.

Author: Amy Dempsey
59
Objective 2
To assess the current position of the source of energy in Ireland.
It is agreed by (Draper, 2014) and (Farrell, 2014) that Ireland is in a great position to source
out wind energy. Location is a major factor for wind turbines because you have to connect or
feed the electricity back to your main grid connection. Eirgrid are trying to build out grid
networks towards Limerick, Galway and West Cork, but the infrastructure is not there to feed
or channel this reliable source claims (Farrell, 2014).
Objective 3
To investigate the role of wind in electricity and for the commercial market.
Turbines are generally between 2 and 3 megawatt each, an average household use’s 600
kilowatt in the year, a four and a half megawatt wind farm will produce enough electricity for
3000 house a year, given that there is a continuous amount of wind (Draper, 2014) claims.
Wind power has helped bring down the price of electricity because it is being produced at a set
for the next 15 years because it’s a 15 year contract. So it’s not a tagged to oil or gas it set at one
price. Traditionally here in Ireland the Irish Government knows what the price of wind
electricity will be for the next 15 years. He also claims wind power will not replace all
conventional fossil fuel power in Ireland and that there will still be a need for a fuel mix. Gas
will always be in that mix or if you were to look at other European countries like France or the
UK it will be nuclear. (Farrell, 2014) Claims that the problem with wind power is it is
unpredictable because it can drop anytime of the day, so they are trying to find ways to keep
electricity flowing.

Author: Amy Dempsey
60
Objective 4
To examine the negative and positive aspects of wind farming in Ireland.
(Farrell, 2014) Believes a positive aspect when applying to An Bord Pleanala for planning
permission for a wind farm, is it gives people a chance to object if they want. (Draper, 2014)
Disagrees and argues a major problem with developing wind farms in Ireland is the planning
process. This can be held up for years costing the developer money. If the planning is objected
it goes through three stages. The local Council, An Bord Pleanala and then to the High Court.
Any person can challenge the developer within given reason as stated in the Environmental Act
Section 3. This cost’s the developer a great amount of money and the challenger has only a
small court fee to pay. If the developer loses they then have to pay the courts and other cost’s
which incur throughout the case i.e. workers and professionals.
(Farrell, 2014) Says that Ireland must take into account its tourism industry and be careful
when placing the turbines in certain locations. A thought would want to go into being careful
not to destroy Ireland’s skyline. (Keeley, 2013) Agrees and suggests too that wind turbines are
quiet ghastly to look at and will ruin the landscape and consideration must be applied when
dealing with Ireland’s tourism industry.
(Draper, 2014) In America and Australia there is no confirmation that wind farms have
devalued property. If you take a person who builds a house near a factory because its closer to
where they work and their only view is looking across at the factory, yet they do not see this as
devaluing their house. Whereas you have somebody putting up a wind turbine and there is a
new structure in the landscape ‘Oh that might devalue my house’. If they were living alongside
a factory they wouldn’t see the factory devaluing their house. (Farrell, 2014) Agrees but also
keeps in mind the theory of NIMBY saying (Not in my backyard).
(Draper, 2014) Shadow flicker is a major part in planning application, neighbours and people
object, because it frightens their animals and effects human health. There are now wind
turbines designed or programmed to shut down if the sun is facing them and this stops shadow
flicker. When the sun has passed the turbines reboot up. This has been proven to stop shadow
flicker by 100%. As a farmer himself, he claims that wind turbines do not affect his livestock
and there is an equestrian centre next door and this does not affect the horses. Turbines do not
affect animals. (Keeley, 2013) Disagrees with this and claims the turbines are known to have

Author: Amy Dempsey
61
serious affects towards animals especially in the agricultural industry. Cows have been known
not to be able to produce milk because of the turbines. (Farrell, 2014) Suggests shadow flicker
does seem to be a big problem.
(Farrell, 2014) Another issue with turbines is the hum or buzzing sound noise. Recently a
family from County Roscommon expressed their feelings towards how wind turbines affect
them especially the noise of them. (Keeley, 2013) Also claims the wind turbines are noisy.
(Draper, 2014) Argues sitting 160m away from his house claims he can’t hear the turbines, and
if you were 160m away from a main road you would hear lots of noise or if you were living near
a town or village you would hear lots of noise.
The effects of local wildlife habitat and Eco systems are not effected by wind farms. A tillage
farmer himself whom grows wheat, barley and reap seed, the turbines do not frighten away the
birds, such as crows, pigeons and many other small birds which fly about. If anything they feed
underneath the turbines, the birds would be more inclined to be hit by a car or bus (Draper,
2014) argues. (Farrell, 2014) Questions to the effects the turbines are believed to have on bats
birds and snails and believes that maybe that if a wind turbine farm is properly planned then it
should have no effect on the animals and Eco systems.
Another positive aspect (Draper, 2014) suggests is wind power is good for the economy and
can increase employment rates, there is a lot of wind farming companies in Ireland and people
just tend to see the wind turbines themselves and do not see what goes on behind the scenes. A
lot of companies employ in the development of wind farms, especially into the planning
process, environmental statements and ecology reports, there is so much going on that it
requires the expertise to be drawn upon. Different surveys for bats, birds etc. comes to be
compiled. After this process there is then the maintenance of the turbines which is a 24/7 job
365 days of the year. Two people are required for every 15 turbines fulltime employment.
(Farrell, 2014) Agrees and claims wind farming can bring employment and money to the
economy. (Keeley, 2013) Argues and claims the wind turbines are high maintenance and up
keeping. They are more of a hindrance of cost.

Author: Amy Dempsey
62
Both (Draper, 2014) and (Farrell, 2014) agree local towns and communities can benefit from
wind farms, as the developer may have to upgrade or contribute to roads, resurfacing, widening
roads, corners being removed, new pathways. The local road network can be improved. It can
bring revenue wise, high commercial rates and global Council benefit.
Landowners can also benefit from having wind turbines on their land and this is from rent fees.
The developer will pay the landowner between a range of €8,000 to €15,000 a year all
depending on the size of the wind turbine and how many are on the land (Draper, 2014).
A non – beneficial aspect to wind turbines is the expensive operation when decommissioning
them (Keeley, 2013). (Draper, 2014) Disagrees and claims the turbines can be taken down
within two to three days with a crane. The wind turbines have also a second hand value and this
can overcompensate costs for taking down the turbines.
(Keeley, 2013) Does not think wind farming is economical. It is not a clean source of energy.
The turbines release CO2 emissions, but believes these emissions to be at a low rate and wind
power to be a cleaner source of energy. Meanwhile (Draper, 2014) claims that wind power is
reducing CO2 emissions and Ireland will reach the target date.
(Farrell, 2014) A final aspect on a non-beneficial towards wind power is the grid connections.
They are a huge costly factor to be considered and it is ESB whom control the networks.
(Draper, 2014) Also agrees with this claiming grid connection costs are another major cost
factor and grid connections are increasing in price rather than decreasing
Objective 5
To understand the availability of wind as a renewable energy source in Ireland.
People can learn to adapt with the wind turbines especially in the rural areas maybe. A key
source would be if people were to be more educated towards wind power they might then just
see and have a different outlook towards this renewable source of energy (Farrell, 2014).
(Draper, 2014) Agrees and feels there is so much bad press around at the moment that there is
a need to establish the fact rather than the fiction and clarify more. There seems to be a lot of
people not educated enough on wind turbines. Hearing wind turbine noise and destroying the
natural organisms in the earth i.e. certain species of snails is taboo! No turbines have effect on
these matters. We should be exploring this energy and taking it to another level. Another

Author: Amy Dempsey
63
concept (Farrell, 2014) believes is, wind farms are being turned down planning across Ireland
because of the protection against animals such as bird’s i.e. eagles and snails. He also strongly
suggests that peoples attitude towards wind energy is they think it’s free, it’s green and they
don’t mind about wind energy as long as it’s NIMBY (Not in My Backyard!). Wind farms tend
to be in more located in the west of Ireland because of the planning conditions and in remote
areas. You wouldn’t see them in Dublin (Farrell, 2014) argues.
Ireland has an abundance of wind to support this energy. Ireland is on the western fringes of
Europe, and if you look at any wind atlas map, Ireland has one of the highest wind speeds
(Draper, 2014). Energy is a commodity now and people can trade more. Especially in energy
sources in renewables (Farrell, 2014).

The Renewable Energy of Wind Farming in Ireland

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (19)

Viewers also liked

Viewers also liked (20)

Similar to The Renewable Energy of Wind Farming in Ireland

Similar to The Renewable Energy of Wind Farming in Ireland (20)

The Renewable Energy of Wind Farming in Ireland