Public safety

Will the community wind turbine be safe? This is an extract from our planning application. More details can be found on our planning application.

 

“General Safety standards – The proposed turbines meets the required international, European and British Standards including BS EN 61400-1: 1995 “Wind turbine generator systems – safety requirements”

Blade loss – As stated above the turbine has been designed to meet the required safety standards and this includes suitable consideration of the risk of blade loss

Ice throw – Modern turbine designs are able to accommodate blade heating systems for sites where there is a high likelihood of blade icing occurring. Direction will be sought from the manufacturer on the requirement for this technology and if blade heating is not utilised the turbine could be programmed to shut-down during periods of potential icing and not start up until climatic conditions where such that icing and ice throw were no longer considered to be an issue.

Lightning strike – The turbine will have the required level of lightning protection incorporated within the build.

Proximity to roads, paths and railways – There are no public roads, paths or railways within close proximity of the turbine location.

Proximity to overhead transmission lines – There are no overhead power lines within close proximity of the turbine location

1.1.        Mitigation Measures

The mitigation measures discussed above include ensuring safe operation of the turbine once installed and full turbine shutdown (if required) during operational periods when this is deemed necessary.

1.2.        Conclusions

The turbine to be installed meets all relevant national and international design and safety standards and the potential issues of ice throw and lightning strike have both been addressed through design and operation.

The turbine is considered to be a suitable distance from all buildings, roads and routes to avoid any residual concerns regarding safety.”

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