Wind energy resource requirements and landscape sensitivity

Renewable energy resources can usually be developed only where they occur at a level that is viable and some degree of impact may be unavoidable. In relation to wind energy, this can only be exploited where wind speeds are sufficiently fast. By its very nature the wind resource is likely to be greatest in upland areas, which may be particularly sensitive in terms of their landscape and nature conservation value. It is also recognised that larger-scale wind energy developments are likely to be visible over distances. The significance of environmental effects may depend on the type and scale of the renewable energy development and the sensitivity of the location.