Content analysis of Citizens’ Opinions on Cumulative Environmental Impacts in Onshore Wind Power Projects in Japan

Abstract

The concentration of wind power development in certain areas has raised concerns about cumulative environmental impacts. This study analyzed the submission status and content of citizens’ opinions concerning cumulative impacts in onshore wind power projects. First, residents’ concerns about cumulative impacts have been submitted for many projects. Second, many opinions focused on the landscape impacts from both proposed and operating projects, with half of these opinions expressing explicit opposition to the project. Third, many opinions expressed concern about the impacts of the proposed project together with other projects in the planning stage, indicating the importance of cumulative impact assessment that accounts for planned projects in the surrounding area.