Facts and FAQs

Facts about Wind Energy Installations in the World

World Rankings in Total Installed Wind Energy Capacity

Total Capacity ( at end of 2006)	MW
Germany	20,622
Spain	11,615
US	11,603
India	6,270
UK	1,963
Portugal	1,716
France	1,567
Canada	1,460

Growth of Wind Installations in 2006

World Rankings in Total Installed Wind Energy Capacity

Total Capacity ( at end of 2006)	MW	Growth: Installed in 2006
Germany	20,622	2,233
Spain	11,615	1,587
US	11,603	2,454 (27% over ’05)
India	6,270	1,840
UK	1,963	634
Portugal	1,716	694
France	1,567	810
Canada	1,460	683 (78% over ’05)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are wind turbines noisy?
In recent years, wind turbine manufacturers have worked diligently to decrease the noise emitted from the turbines. The following table shows a comparison of wind farm noise to other noises in our lives.

Source/Activity	Indicative noise level dB
Threshold of hearing	0
Rural night-time background	20-40
Quiet bedroom	35
Wind farm at 350m	35-45
Car at 40mph at 100m	55
Busy general office	60
Truck at 30mph at 100m	65
Pneumatic drill at 7m	95
Jet aircraft at 250m	105
Threshold of pain	140
Information taken from The Scottish Office, Environment Department, Planning Advice Note, PAN 45, Annes A: Wind Power, A.27. Renewable Energy Technologies, August 1994

Is there a danger to birds or other animals?
Wind farms are always subject to an Environmental Impact Assessments and Shear Wind will work closely with such organizations as CANWEA, Environment Canada and the Nova Scotia Department of Environment to ensure that our wind farm design and layout does not interfere with sensitive species or wildlife designated areas.
There are many more birds killed on the Canadian highways and through the effects of Climate Change, than are affected by wind turbines.
Will many turbines have a bad effect on the appearance of our horizon?
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, therefore YOUR opinion.
However, studies regularly show that turbines are an interesting feature of the landscape and are peaceful looking. The public supports wind energy as a clean alternative.