Potential Environmental Impacts in the Wind Energy Sector
As the wind energy sector grows, it brings clean, affordable energy, green jobs, and tax revenue. However, there are increasing concerns about the possible environmental impacts. The manufacturing, maintenance, and decommissioning stages involved in this renewable energy source all present a risk of pollution. Turbine operations risk disrupting wildlife habitat, killing birds on impact, creating noise pollution, and obstructing views. Litigation surrounding these issues has created challenges for the wind energy sector. Specialized pollution insurance coverage can help protect wind energy companies as they utilize new technologies and expand into new territories.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that scientists from around the globe are actively investigating the effects of offshore wind power companies on marine life and will continue to do so. They are monitoring whether the increase in noise changes the behavior of sea species and if construction disrupts the seabed and water quality. Another concern is whether marine life will cluster (called a “reef effect”) around the turbines, altering the natural ecosystem.
On land, there is more tangible evidence of environmental disruption. Wind farm construction has been linked to deaths among bird and bat populations, including protected species like golden eagles. Disruption of ecosystems can influence populations of beneficial or harmful species, impacting pest control and pollination for farmers. The effect on local wildlife is actively monitored and could lead to requisite changes to minimize adverse outcomes, a move already witnessed in other industries.
Turbine structures can cause drainage issues, soil erosion, and waterlogging, all of which can damage crops. The electromagnetic fields generated by the turbines can also disrupt farming electrical equipment. Additionally, shadow flicker cast by rotating blades and noise can stress livestock.
The noise and visual obstruction can also drive property values down, making wind energy a target for controversy. In 2018, a legal dispute arose in the U.S. state of Michigan, where a group of residents near a wind farm sued the company over noise pollution, alleging that the constant low-frequency noise from the turbines was detrimental to their health and well-being.
The manufacturing of wind turbines involves metals, resins, and chemicals that pose a risk to the environment if not handled properly. Spills, fires, and equipment failure can pollute the air, groundwater, and soil. Lubricants and cleaning agents required for maintenance also pose environmental risks if spilled or mishandled. The eventual decommissioning and disposal of turbine parts, specifically the blades, constructed of composite material, pose a potential environmental exposure. Improper electronic waste management can contaminate soil, groundwater, and stormwater.
Premises Pollution Liability insurance can offset pollution risk by covering on-site and off-site cleanup, defense costs, and third-party claims for injury and property damage. This coverage applies to owned or leased properties. Contractors Pollution & Professional can address exposures that renewable/wind energy contractors and consultants may face from their daily operations. Additionally, these companies should consider Natural Resource Damages, Business Interruption coverage, Transportation Pollution Liability, and other supporting lines. Due to the complexity of the wind energy sector risks, working with pollution insurance specialists to secure pollution coverage is essential.
Contact Beacon Hill Associates for more information about pollution coverage for businesses in the wind energy industry.
Type: Blog
Topic: Renewable Energy, Wind
