Downside of Wind Energy

Wind farms offer a non-polluting and renewable source of energy. At first glance, wind may seem like a feasible solution to the shortage of alternative energy; however, as the following two articles report, there are many shortfalls and arguments against the viability of wind.

The Land Report published the article “Texas at the Center of Wind Power Debate” (read Full Story) discussing the following agricultural, environmental, and personal concerns regarding wind farms:
- Obstructed views created by large wind turbines
- Destruction of habitat and the deadly affects on wildlife
- Devaluing of ranch recreational activities such as hunting

The New York Times article, “Where Now, for the Wind?,” (read Full Story)
examines the shaky financial aspects of wind from the perspective of FLP Energy, the world’s largest wind power producer. In short the financial viability of wind is greatly affected by various external factors including:
- The staying power of wind energy companies is dependent on tax benefits and subsidies being renewed by law makers
- The increasing cost of wind turbines has resulted in turbine production increasing 60 to 80% over the last three years, decreasing the profitability and sustainability of certain operations.

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