Environmental Impacts of Wind-Energy Projects

The generation of electricity by wind energy has the potential to reduce environmental impacts caused by the use of fossil fuels. Although the use of wind energy to generate electricity is increasing rapidly in the United States, government guidance to help communities and developers evaluate and plan proposed wind-energy projects is lacking. Environmental Impacts of Wind-Energy Projects offers an analysis of the environmental benefits and drawbacks of wind energy, along with an evaluation guide to aid decision-making about projects. It includes a case study of the mid-Atlantic highlands, a mountainous area that spans parts of West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. This book will inform policy makers at the federal, state, and local levels. Table of Contents Front Matter Summary 1 Introduction 2 Context for Analysis of Effects of Wind-Powered Electricity Generation in the United States and the Mid-Atlantic Highlands 3 Ecological Effects of Wind-Energy Development 4 Impacts of Wind-Energy Development on Humans 5 Planning for and Regulating Wind-Energy Development References Appendix A About the Authors Appendix B Emission Rates for Electrical Generation Appendix C Methods and Metrics for Wildlife Studies Appendix D A Visual Impact Assessment Process for Evaluating Wind-Energy Projects