Wind Farm Development: An Analysis of Factors Influencing Residents' Perceptions and Support of Wind Turbines

This research examines perceptions and levels of support for wind farm development held by residents in four townships of Huron County, Michigan, each with varying degrees of turbine placement. The majority of residents in each of the four townships was supportive of wind farm development at any location within their township. Residents who reported being neutral in their opinions before development tended to perceive wind farms negatively after construction. Data analysis indicated that social and environmental perceptions about positive outcomes of wind turbines were strongly related with support for wind farm development. Residents’ concerns included impacts on the environment, economy and on people.

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