California wind energy development: environmental support -and opposition

Quantitative and qualitative research was conducted during 1988 and 1989 with regard to California's large wind energy developments. Environmental support and opposition were studied. Environmental concerns, especially those of local environmentalists and activists within the host communities, are limiting wind energy well below its potential in California. ''Visual Intrusion'' is by far the most salient environmental concern. Tradeoffs between scenic preservation and windpower's reliable, economical, pollution-free electricity production need to be realistically addressed. This can not occur until perceptions regarding windpower catch up with its technology. An understanding of the California experience may prove beneficial to those who are currently engaged in wind energy programs. (author)