Wind-based energy, a little bit of discernment, please

In 2004, the Charest government launched an offer for the development of 2000 wind-based energy turbines in Quebec. Back then, ecological groups and a large segment of the population welcomed the move. Today, wind-based energy remains Quebecers' favourite energy production method by a long shot.

In theory, then, everything was going well…until some projects, most noticeably near Bas-du-Fleuve, were developed chaotically and created a lot of trouble.

Is this nevertheless a sufficient reason to stop the development of wind-based energy?

Recently, citizens of St. Jacques le Mineur in Montérégie voiced their discontent after learning of a potential wind-based project nearby. It is true that the municipality could have made public consultations earlier in the process, but despite what some say, the municipality and the company did not act "secretively." All adopted resolutions concerning this project were public.

Some citizens also speak of health and environment risks. I think there is a lot of exaggeration there.

In a 2006 report, the Académie national de médecine in France concluded that "the production of infrasound by wind turbines is well-analyzed and moderated in its immediate surroundings: it is not dangerous to humans."

As for environmental concerns, wind-based energy production is recognized world-wide as one of the ways to produce energy that has the least impact on the environment.

Finally, generally speaking, all wind turbines would have to be placed at James Bay or Côte Nord if we relied on the detractors' words. Before accepting this proposition, impacts have to be measured. The further energy is produced from where it is going to be consumed, the costlier it is to transport across thousands of kilometres. Would those who oppose these plans be ready to accept rate hikes by Hydro Quebec?

With an annual average of around 50 000 new home projects since 2000, electricity consumption in Quebec has not stopped rising. Energy efficiency is important, but reality should be looked at in the face: we have to raise our energy production. In that sense, wind-based energy remains one of our best solutions, both in terms of the environment and human health.