We are a group of local residents in the Harberton and Harbertonford area who believe that the proposal by TRESOC (Totnes renewable energy society) for wind turbines at Luscombe Cross is unacceptable and should be opposed. We are also concerned about the possible spread of such applications in the South Hams.

We would like to emphasise that we all support natural energy technology contributing to our energy needs alongside the existing conventional methods.  But we are also aware of the very low efficiency (less than 30%) of wind turbines’ performance, due to the intermittent and unpredictable nature of the wind.

Wind farms are hopelessly unprofitable without the massive Government subsidies being offered to boost returns on the sale of electricity.  Prices are expected to rise greatly following the start of forced closures of coal and gas fired power stations under European law.  This artificially induced price hike will make the subsidised wind energy tariffs appear acceptable.

The principal beneficiaries of this will be the owners of Infinergy, with a minimum 51% stake, and the Government subsidised profits will flow to Holland, the home of the parent company. Furthermore, the electricity generated is not just locally for the benefit of Totnes, as it forms part of the whole grid.

The group have listed potentially negative aspects of wind turbines and all with a high impact rating.  They include:

• The visual impairment of the landscape, at close range (affecting certain properties), medium range (affecting views from the nearby A381, Totnes and Harberton) and long range (from nationally significant viewpoints, e.g. Dartmoor and much of the South Hams area of outstanding beauty.

• Noise disturbance, set against years old and inadequate noise regulations, affecting some local residents.

• Related to this there is the lethal effect of the air pressure fluctuations on bats, who, unfortunately, are attracted to fly close.  South Hams has significant bat colonies within range of such a threat. Local  birds, such as owls and migratory  birds such as swallows and house martins are also placed at risk”

• Wind turbine blades are heavy (about 6 tons) and can achieve speeds of well over 150mph at their outer ends.  Ice can be thrown hundreds of yards (evidence has shown) in certain wintry conditions, and the A381 and other small roads are easily within range.  If a section of a blade broke loose, such an object could weigh ½ ton and be released at 150mph – We are all aware of the damage one single straw bale can cause…

We note that a project for one turbine has been passed near South Brent.  A further application has been stopped in Goveton.  But this indicates that the South Hams are as much a target for wind farms as anywhere else and if this farm goes ahead, it will set a precedent for further applications in the area.

Please give us your support and come to our public meeting