There are many differing opinions on the visual impacts of wind turbines. While one person may find turbines obtrusive and offensive to the landscape, another person may find them unique and appealing. Opinions aside, there are several issues that relate to the visual impacts of turbines:

•  Shadow flicker

•  Color

•  Lights

•  Siting

Shadow flicker refers to the shadows that are cast by the rotating blades of wind turbines. The amount of shadow flicker is dependent on the angle of the sun in relation to the turbine; the lower the sun is in the sky, the more shadows are cast by the blades. For most parts of the U.S., including the Western U.P, the sun is never low enough in the sky to pose a problem with turbine shadow flicker. Many wind organizations provide online shadow calculators that allow individuals to simulate the shadows that would be caused by turbines in various locations.

Wind turbines are generally painted by the manufacturer so that they blend well with the natural environment. In most cases turbines are painted grey so that they will blend well with the skyline, but some are also painted green or are two-toned. Other turbines are manufactured with a galvanized metal so that the metal will weather and turn grey naturally. 

The Federal Aviation Administration requires that all commercial turbines over 200 ft. in height must have lighting to warn pilots of their presence. In the past most turbines were equipped with steady or flashing white lights, which some people found distracting. Many modern turbines instead have intermittent red lights much like the lights found on communication towers. These lights are usually less distracting to passersby and neighbors.

The placement of turbines plays an important role in their visual impacts; the proper placement of wind turbines can help to ensure that they are as unobtrusive as possible. Although turbines should be sited in the areas of maximum wind potential in order to maintain efficiency, whenever possible several steps should be taken to reduce their presence in the landscape:

•  Keep turbines out of the direct view of communities

•  Keep turbines off of tall ridges and hills

•  Keep offshore turbines as close as possible to isolated shores

Although no large turbines or wind farms exist in the Upper Peninsula, it can be assumed that any proposal to place turbines in the U.P. may be highly controversial for several reasons. One of the main reasons is that the U.P. is known for its scenic beauty and extensive forested areas. In addition, it is home to many unique species of flora and fauna. Though uncertain, it is possible that the presence of turbines would disrupt the scenery or the pristine conditions of the area.

In addition to the natural beauty of the landscape, the Upper Peninsula is also widely known for its unique mining history. Various mines are scattered throughout the region and served as the foundation for many towns in the area.  Indeed, a National Historic Park has been constructed around the area's mining heritage.  With such a focus on heritage and traditions, it is possible that the introduction of new and bold technologies such as wind turbines would be controversial.

It is possible that controversy could arise from economic issues as well. The Upper Peninsula is highly dependent on tourism as a source of income and the presence of turbines could potentially affect tourism by either increasing or decreasing visitors to the area. 

The Michigan Wind Energy Working Group has developed a draft set of siting guidelines for siting wind turbines, The Michigan Wind Energy System Siting Guidelines, that does include recommendations related to their visual effect on the landscape.

Wind Power in the Western Upper Peninsula