Typically two-thirds to three-fourths of those polled support wind development even in areas with existing wind turbines. Public opinion surveys on both sides of the Atlantic have consistently shown strong support for the development of wind energy. One means for maximizing acceptance is to incorporate aesthetic guidelines into the design of wind turbines and wind power plants. Because support is fragile and can be squandered by ill-conceived projects, the industry must do everything it can to insure that wind turbines and wind power plants become good neighbors.

This support erodes once specific projects are proposed. Opinion surveys show that wind has high public support, but a worrisome NIMBY factor. conference in Washington, DC March 30, 1995. The following paper was presented at the American Wind Energy Assoc.

Design as if People Matter: Aesthetic Guidelines for the Wind Industry