How This Wind Farm Project Overcame NIMBY Opposition
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The rocky coast of the Isle of Lewis, Scotland
Photographer: Danita Delimont/Gallo ImagesAfter years of setbacks, the Stornoway Wind Farm project on the Scottish island of Lewis is moving forward. Local leaders have removed barriers to build power-generating turbines that harness the steady winds that buffet the sparsely populated area.
To overcome community opposition, the governing council on Lewis managed to address environmental concerns about damaging fragile landscapes and bird populations, as well local skepticism about the project’s economic benefits. Revenue from wind turbines has been used to help subsidize a local grocery store, fund college scholarships and even provide direct cash handouts to residents.