Risks and Benefits of Wind Generated Electricity: Facts and Perceptions

Abstract In less than a decade, wind generated electricity has developed into a significant, cost-effective, environmentally desirable, and reliable energy technology. Qualitative and quantitative studies conducted by the authors suggest that perceptions, as well as attitudes and behaviors, of salient publics contrast substantially with the reality of today's windpower facts. This article (I) presents current information regarding windpower technology, (2) summarizes the authors' research on public acceptability of windpower technology, and (3) offers recommendations to address certain issues identified as impeding the acceptance and usage of wind generated electricity.