According to Ontario Minister of the Environment, John Wilkinson,  “A panel of three judges today (Mar. 4) upheld the provisions of Ontario’s Renewable Energy Approvals regulation. This regulation is the cornerstone of Ontario’s approach to the approval of wind turbine projects and the protection of human health and the environment."

In January 2011, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice was asked to consider whether potential health affects of wind turbines were adequately considered before the regulation was made.

The wind provisions of that regulation have now been upheld.

This ruling confirms that the Minister complied with the process and fulfilled the requirements of the Environmental Bill of Rights, including consideration of the ministry’s Statement of Environmental Values.

The court said that there was a full public consultation and consideration of the views of interested parties including science-based evidence.

Ontario is committed to increasing renewable energy. The province’s 550 metre setback for wind turbines are the strictest legislated standards in North America and based on peer-reviewed science.

This minimum setback provides that noise levels are limited to 40 decibel at the nearest residence - this is a sound level comparable to indoor background sound, such as the noise of an office or quiet library.

The government actively inspects all wind turbines in the province to ensure compliance with these strict limits.

This is a significant decision. Ontario’s rules for wind energy are based on peer-reviewed science that protects human health and the environment.

Increasing renewable energy sources helps clean the air but also attracts jobs and investment, hopefully positioning Ontario as a global leader in renewable energy.”