20/6/2017

Government report on health impact from wind power finds no impact from infrasound – Ministry starts preparations for renewable energy subsidy scheme

The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland has published the much-awaited report on the health impact of wind power on 16 June 2017.

The study was conducted by the National Institute for Health with the support of VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, the University of Helsinki, Helsinki Ear Institute and the Nuclear Safety Authority, STUK.

The goals of the study were to compile existing results from research on the health effects of noise from wind power plants, to assess the information and estimate the need for additional research. The main focus was on the impact of infrasound, which is sound that is lower in frequency than 20Hz.

The project also encompassed producing new information: infrasound was measured in the surroundings of two wind power plants and as a comparative in urban surroundings and in nature. Lastly, results from previous surveys were analysed further.

The combined results are that there is currently no evidence on direct health impact resulting from wind power. Concerning infrasound, existing research has not proven a health impact if the sound pressure level is below hearing threshold, as is the case with wind power plants. The authors do, nevertheless, conclude that additional research should be carried out. The respective studies have been scheduled to be conducted during fall 2017.

With the report published, the Ministry kicks off the preparation for the regulations concerning the subsidy scheme for renewable energy, including wind power. If the additional studies reveal a health impact from wind power, more stringent provisions concerning the placement of wind farms may have to be introduced. Such would likely be implemented by 2019.