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Wisconsin Wind Turbine Health Effects

Energy companies often look for ways to create greener energy to help preserve the planet and its resources. Wind turbines are used in areas such as Wisconsin, where open farm fields allow for access to wind energy throughout most of the year. However, while these wind turbines create greener energy, they do pose a health risk to those living in the area.
  1. Shadow Flicker

    • One of the concerns for health issues with wind turbines in Wisconsin is the shadow flicker. When the blades of the wind turbine turn, particularly in bright sunlight with higher winds, moving shadows are cast onto the ground. Similar to flickering video games, these moving shadows can trigger seizures in certain individuals. However, through studies, the speed necessary to cause significant health issues can be avoided. At 60 rotations per minute, the output is 3 Hz. To cause seizures, output must be at least 5 Hz.

    Audible Noise

    • Wind turbines make noise when they run, and this noise often continues into the night. Those who live close to wind turbines may suffer sleep disturbances because of the noise. If people do not get enough sleep, they are more susceptible to illnesses and are at a higher risk of being involved in an accident. In addition, long-term exposure to noise can result in hearing loss of varying degrees. Other side effects of prolonged noise exposure include hypertension, or high blood pressure, and ischemic heart disease.

    Low-Frequency Noise

    • The noise emitted by wind turbines is classified as low-frequency noise. Lower noise frequencies have more powerful vibrations that can have an impact on the health of individuals living near wind turbines. Although studies are often contradictory on the results of frequent exposure to these low-frequency noises from wind turbines, exposure to these sounds can apparently lead to damage. One disease often associated with low-frequency noise exposure is vibroacoustic disease. Symptoms of this disease include thickening of connective tissue, depression, decrease in cognitive function and irritability.

    Proof

    • While many Wisconsin residents seek relief from the possible adverse effects of wind turbines on farms, very little is yet known about the health issues that may occur. The use of wind turbines is still fairly new and has not been studied long-term as of the publication of this article. Some of the issues, such as sleep disturbance and noise, that are reported with wind turbines are more of an annoyance than an actual threat to a person's health. Wind turbines may have the potential to impact human health negatively, but more studies are needed over a longer period of time to make a definitive judgment.


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