Sir, - Bernard Boras presented an inaccurate view of the environmental effects of wind energy (February 11th).
Conventional electricity generation is the chief source of greenhouse gas emissions, which threaten to destroy our climate through global warming. With our heavy reliance on fossil fuels, Ireland has one of the most polluting electricity generating profiles in Europe. Unless we can show real progress in containing these emissions within five years, Ireland faces punitive fines for non-compliance with the Kyoto Protocol. Since we are unable to turn off our demand for energy (in fact it is increasing) what we must do is switch to cleaner forms of electricity generation.
Luckily an ideal solution is blowing in our faces. Wind energy generates clean, green electricity with no harmful emissions, and it can make a substantial contribution to our energy needs in Ireland.
Unlike polluting fossil fuelled power stations, with wind energy there are no hidden dangers - what you see is what you get. Improvements in design have overcome any problems with noise. International studies have shown that wind farms pose no significant threat to birds and other wildlife. And every unit of electricity generated from wind energy reduces our reliance on fossil fuels.
With a sensible approach from planners and developers, wind farms can be accommodated without damaging our landscape. More enlightened visitors to our shores will see them as evidence of a responsible effort to protect our environment. - Yours, etc., Ewan Chalmers,
Irish Energy Centre, Bandon, Co Cork.