ABSTRACT

In many respects, wind power development can be said to be a question of “neither-nor” and “both-and,” because it has a dual nature and cannot be categorized within the traditionally narrow fields usually dealt with in physical planning. Is wind power a threat to the natural and cultural landscape and to many people’s wellbeing and peace of mind? Is it irreconcilable with living environments and a nuisance to other businesses, such as the tourist industry? Does wind power represent ugliness in the landscape and a peril to biological diversity? Or can it be a characteristic image of our times and a genuine expression of the ecological sustainability culture supported by most of us—measured in both symbolic value and megawatt hours? Is wind power a significant part of a long-term, sustainable energy system? Is it a key component of the effort to reverse global warming? (Gotlands Kommun, 2010, p. 120).