§ 25. Mr. Simon ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when she last met National Assembly secretaries to discuss wind energy in Wales; and if she will make a statement. [33819]
§ Mr. WilsonDTI Ministers and officials have regular contact with Ministers and officials of the National Assembly on a range of issues including wind energy.
The Government have set an ambitious target for renewable energy and the development of wind energy in Wales will make an important contribution.
§ Mr. Alan ReidTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment the Government have made of the environmental impact of wind farms. [35607]
§ Mr. WilsonEach proposed wind turbine installation is subject to some environmental evaluation prior to its construction. For proposed wind farms involving more than a single turbine, whether onshore or offshore, a full environmental impact assessment by an independent consultant is generally required.
A number of studies, conducted both within the DTI's Sustainable Energy Programme and outside, have looked in detail at environmental effects of wind farms. These include studies on noise, birds, other wildlife, visual impact, electromagnetic interference, and the cumulative effects of wind turbines on a locality.