Chilean fauna in danger due to wind farms
Credit: "Winds of Change" · February 19, 2025 · By Francisca Lopez (IPS) · HAVANA TIMES · havanatimes.org ~~
With its 6,435 kilometers of coastline, Chile has great potential for wind energy, which is key to its commitment to decarbonization. The country has 4,517 megawatts (MW) of installed capacity in wind farms, distributed across dozens of installations throughout the territory.
The sound of these wind farms, similar to the constant roar of an airplane about to land, can become overwhelming for those who spend time near the massive blades. The shadow of the blades casts changing patterns on the ground, like a repetitive dance that follows the rhythm of the wind.
In the distance, the songs of birds can be heard while the wind creaks as it passes through the metal structures painted white.
Wind energy, along with solar energy, is central to the country’s strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with an expected 4% annual growth until 2027.
However, this progress comes at an ecological cost: flying wildlife, particularly birds and bats, face collision risks as wind farms expand.
https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2025/02/20/chilean-fauna-in-danger-due-to-wind-farms/
