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In Canadian research on the effects of wind turbine noise onhuman health, several studies have found no direct link betweenwind turbine noise and physical health problems. A review of scientific literature on wind turbine sound and humanhealth conducted by Canadian researchers Drs. Loren D. Knopperand Christopher A. Ollson found no direct causal link between people living near wind turbines and physiological health effects.The review, which appeared in the Journal of Environmental Health, suggested that reported health effects are likely attributed to environmental stressors rather than specific turbine-relatedfactors like audible noise or infrasound. Another significant study by Health Canada and Statistics Canada involved more than 1,200 adults living near wind turbines in Ontario and Prince Edward Island. This study, which was launchedin response to concerns about wind turbines causing illness,concluded that there was no definitive connection between windturbine noise and a range of chronic health problems. The studydid find a relationship between increasing levels of wind turbinenoise and annoyance towards various features of wind turbines,including noise, vibration, shadow flicker, and aircraft warninglights. However, no evidence was found linking wind turbine noiseto self-reported or measured health issues such as sleepdisturbance, dizziness, migraine headaches, chronic problems likeheart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, or stress indicatorslike hair cortisol levels. These findings indicate that while wind turbine noise can be asource of annoyance for some people, it does not directly causehealth problems. The annoyance experienced by individuals maybe influenced by factors other than noise, such as visual impact orpersonal benefit from the turbines.

Yes, there are wind turbines located near settlements in Holland.As part of the country’s efforts to increase renewable energycapacity, the Netherlands has been actively installing onshore windturbines. By the end of 2015, there were at least 2,525 onshorewind turbines in the Netherlands, contributing to around 5% of thecountry’s total energy requirement. The Dutch government set atarget to achieve an onshore wind capacity of 6,000 MW by 2020,under the Energy Agreement for Sustainable Growth. This targetrequired the addition of approximately 1,000 to 1,500 new onshorewind turbines. Moreover, the Dutch government’s climate plans aim for at least 27% of energy to come from sustainable sources by 2030, withwind energy playing a significant role in achieving this goal. TheNetherlands has taken measures to generate energy using onshorewind turbines as a reliable and efficient sustainable energy source.The construction of these wind farms often involves cooperationwith local building contractors, and residents can share in theproceeds, reflecting a community-based approach to renewableenergy development. One notable example is the wind farm in Zeewolde, near Amsterdam, where local residents and farmers have becomeshareholders in the project. This approach has helped to overcomeresistance from local residents often hesitant about living next towind turbines due to concerns about noise and visual impact. Inthis project, more than 90% of the people in the project areabecame shareholders, demonstrating a successful model ofcommunity involvement in renewable energy projects. These initiatives illustrate the Netherlands’ commitment to renewable energy and the integration of wind turbines into bothrural and residential areas, balancing the need for sustainableenergy with community involvement and acceptance.

In the Netherlands, the setback rules for wind turbines are notstrictly defined by a single standard distance. Instead, they aretypically determined based on a maximum noise level of 40dB(A). In practice, a common guideline is to use a distance ofabout 4 times the height of the mast of the wind turbine. However,this is not a legal requirement, and the actual setback can varydepending on specific local regulations and environmental impactassessments. In Germany, the setback requirements for wind turbines vary basedon the designated noise level protection of the area: - In “quiet regions” with a noise level of 35 dB(A), thesetback is typically between 1,000 to 1,500 meters. - In “middle regions” with a noise level of 40 dB(A), thesetback ranges from 600 to 1,000 meters. - In “standard regions” with a noise level of 45 dB(A), thesetback is usually between 300 to 600 meters. These distances can vary since all makes and models of wind turbines are not equally noisy. Some German states have their ownspecific standards.Both countries approach the issue with an emphasis on minimizing noise impact and ensuring the turbines fit appropriately within the local environment.

In Ontario, the difference in setback requirements for windturbines between participating and non-participating properties islargely due to considerations of impact and consent. Participatinglandowners, who have agreed to have turbines on their property,are generally more accepting of their presence and the associatedimpacts such as noise or visual disturbance. In contrast, nonparticipatingproperty owners have not given such consent, sogreater setbacks are required to minimize potential impacts ontheir properties. This approach is aimed at balancing thedevelopment of wind energy with the rights and preferences ofindividuals living near these installations.

Research from Iowa State University suggests that wind turbineslocated in agricultural fields can have a positive impact on cropsgrowing around them. The study, conducted by a team of plant andsoil scientists, observed that wind turbines change themicroclimate for crops like corn and soybeans. The turbulencecreated by the turbines can interact with the crop, possiblyincreasing evaporation from the crop or moving carbon dioxidedown into the crop. This increased movement can also lead tomore sunlight penetrating the dense crop canopy, potentiallybenefiting the plants.Overall crops grown in wind farms seem to benefit.“So there are three ways the crop is being ‘fertilized’ from eitherthe air or from the soil or from increased photosynthesis. Wemeasured increased carbon dioxide uptake during the day, but anincreased respiration at night,” he said. “But over the course of theday there was more uptake. So as far as the impact of the turbineson the carbon dioxide processes and the photosynthesis process inthe near vicinity of the turbines it’s a net gain.”

Yes, gladly! We regularly offer exciting insights and practical experiences for students who are enthusiastic about renewable energy. Whether in the technical, economic or administrative areas — with us, you can help shape, take on responsibility and develop yourself further. Simply send us your unsolicited application with the desired period and the planned duration — we will then see together whether and how it fits.

Wind energy brings clear benefits to the region: As an owner, you receive regular, contractually regulated lease payments — reliably over the entire term. The municipality also benefits: Thanks to business tax, significant parts of the added value remain local. In addition, regional jobs are being created — and last but not least, the opportunity to actively participate in the energy transition. Prowind attaches great importance to fair participation models and long-term dialogue with all parties involved.

A wind farm is not an overnight project. It usually takes between three and seven years from the first area inspection to commissioning. During this time, extensive reports are prepared, discussions are held with authorities and municipalities, and numerous approval steps are carried out. Prowind takes care of the entire project development — as a space owner, you will be continuously informed without having to worry about the details yourself.

Each project examines in detail how the planned plant affects the environment. As part of the environmental impact assessment, effects on birds, bats, the landscape, soil, water and humans are considered, among other things. Where necessary, we implement targeted protective measures — for example shutdowns during bat flight times or landscape-adapted planning. Our goal is to keep the intervention as low as possible and at the same time make an important contribution to climate protection. Because the biggest environmental impact remains unchecked climate change — which we actively counteract with renewable energy.

This depends heavily on the location, wind frequency and the type of turbine used. Modern wind turbines in good inland locations can generate between 10 and 20 million kilowatt hours of electricity annually. Depending on consumption, this allows up to 5,000 households to be supplied with clean electricity per year. Offshore plants or very windy locations reach even higher values. Wind energy is therefore one of the most efficient renewable sources of energy.

For a wind farm to be built, many aspects must fit together: The wind conditions must be sufficiently strong and constant. The area must be suitable and available — ideally large, contiguous and as far away from residential development as possible. There are also legal and planning frameworks such as social distancing regulations, spatial planning plans and environmental requirements. Only when all these points are correct can concrete planning begin. Prowind takes care of the full audit and accompanies you through every step of the way as an owner — transparent, professionally experienced and with many years of experience.

A wind turbine — or more specifically a wind turbine — uses the power of the wind to generate clean electricity. When the wind blows, it sets the turbine's large blades in motion. This rotational movement is transmitted via a transmission to a generator, which generates electrical energy from it. The energy generated is then brought to the appropriate voltage via a transformer and fed into the power grid. The whole thing happens quietly, efficiently and completely emission-free — a prime example of climate-friendly technology.

Yes — in many cases, a storage system pays off due to lower grid charges, avoided load peaks or the optimized use of self-generated electricity. In advance, we carefully check whether and how a storage system can be economically integrated into your energy concept.

We support you from the initial idea to commissioning and beyond. After an individual analysis of your needs, we develop a tailor-made concept, take care of approvals, technology and implementation — and remain your reliable partner even in the company.

Our storage solutions are suitable for commercial and industrial applications as well as for municipal energy projects. Typical areas of application include self-consumption optimization, peak load capping, emergency power supply or integration into regional energy supply concepts.

We work with modern lithium-ion battery storage systems that are characterized by high efficiency, long life and low maintenance requirements. Depending on the project, however, we also test alternative technologies — always tailored to individual requirements.

Energy storage systems ensure greater supply security, reduce peak loads and help to optimize energy costs. They make you more independent of grid fluctuations and actively contribute to stabilizing the power grid. At the same time, they are making an important contribution to the local energy revolution.

An energy storage system stores excess energy — from wind or solar power, for example — and releases it when needed. In this way, renewable energy is made available exactly when it is needed, regardless of whether the wind is blowing or the sun is shining.

Very uncomplicated. Give us a call, write an email or just drop by. We listen, look at your space and discuss everything openly and honestly. You decide calmly whether it fits.

After the contract expires, we dismantle the systems at our expense. Your area is restored to its original state.

With wind energy, the majority of the area remains usable for agriculture. When it comes to solar projects, we ensure natural care — for example through extensive mowing or grazing with sheep.

No, we'll take care of that completely. From initial planning to expert opinion to approval and grid connection — you have no effort.

No problem — the lease agreement remains valid and is taken over by the new owner. We are happy to help you sort everything out properly.

Usually between 20 and 30 years of age. We rely on long-term partnerships with handshake quality — from the initial discussion to dismantling the plant.

In the initial phase, we check whether a project can be implemented on your site. If it doesn't work out, there are no costs or obligations for you.

The lease depends on the location, size and potential of the area. We offer fair, standard market conditions — often with an adjustment to inflation. Everything is transparent and without hidden conditions.

Free, contiguous areas with good wind potential are suitable for wind energy. For solar projects, we are primarily looking for easily accessible arable or conversion areas with as southern orientation as possible. We would be happy to look at your space individually.

You provide us with your space to build and operate a wind energy or photovoltaic system. You remain the owner and receive a regular rent payment in return — fair, transparent and long-term.

Prowind combines energy storage with wind and solar projects to increase efficiency and optimize local use of generated energy. This enables a better integration of renewable energy into the power grid.

Prowind develops projects using various storage technologies, including battery storage and hydrogen solutions, to ensure a flexible and reliable energy supply.

Energy storage systems make it possible to temporarily store excess electricity from renewable sources. They ensure a stable energy supply by balancing supply and demand.

Prowind solar projects promote local added value, create jobs and contribute to the sustainable development of communities. Citizens can also benefit directly from the projects through participation models.

The PV lease model enables land owners to provide their roofs or land for photovoltaic systems without having to invest themselves. Prowind plans, installs and operates the systems.

Prowind is constantly looking for suitable areas for solar projects. Owners can lease their land and thus contribute to sustainable energy production while benefiting from stable income.

Prowind attaches great importance to protecting nature. When implementing wind energy projects, compensation areas are created and measures are implemented to protect nature and species in order to maintain the ecological balance

Citizen energy parks enable local communities to contribute financially to wind energy projects. Prowind promotes these participation models to increase local acceptance and benefits

Prowind offers land owners the opportunity to make their land available for wind energy projects. In doing so, they benefit from long-term rental income and actively contribute to the energy revolution.

Yes, I'd love to. We welcome cooperation with citizen energy companies and create the necessary structures for this — for maximum participation and regional anchoring.

On request, Prowind can also take over operational management. This gives you one point of contact for all questions — reliable, competent and long-term.

Depending on the size of the project and the permit situation, it usually takes between 3 and 6 years. We will support you continuously — with clear timelines and open communication.

Together, we analyse which municipal or private areas are suitable. In doing so, we pay attention to technical, ecological and legal frameworks — always in close coordination with you.

In addition to important income from rent and business tax, your municipality benefits from positive economic development, regional added value and a strong signal for climate protection.

Acceptance comes from transparency and participation. That is why we provide early information, offer public events and enable local citizens to participate financially.

As soon as possible. We start with discussions on equal terms and coordinate all essential steps closely with you. Your knowledge of the region is essential for a successful project.

We support you from the initial idea to the operation of the project. In doing so, we attach great importance to transparency, regular exchange and close cooperation with administration, politics and citizens.

Typically through a mix of equity, debt (banks, KfW) and, if applicable, mezzanine capital. Prowind develops individual financing models with experienced partners.

It depends on the project status.

Often yes — especially with Prowind projects. This can have an impact on the shareholder structure and distribution of income, but is usually an advantage for regional acceptance and political support.

Prowind brings over 25 years of experience, technical know-how, a transparent project structure and a clear commitment to sustainability. Many projects are close to citizens, stable and ecologically sound.

Terms of between 5 and 15 years are usual. The longer the contract, the more stable the price base — but also the more long-term the commitment.

The contract partner - in this case Prowind - guarantees the supply of electricity. Production fluctuations (e.g. due to sun or wind) are often cushioned by supplementary delivery models.

The land is contractually leased for the duration of the project. The use is carried out in close coordination and, after dismantling, the area is restored to its original state.

Typical risks include construction, licensing, grid connection, electricity prices, weather and technology. These are backed by contracts, insurance and conservative assumptions in the business case.

No The electricity can also be delivered via the public grid (virtual PPA). It is important to provide financial evidence of the source of electricity.

Access routes, foundations and, if applicable, cable lines are planned — as sparing as possible and in close coordination with you.

The technical and commercial management of operations is carried out by Prowind. Contracts regulate fixed services and guaranteed availability.

Long-term price stability and independence from the electricity market, visible contribution to decarbonization and climate goals Improving ESG balance and competitiveness, image enhancement among customers, partners and employees

With wind energy, a large part of the area remains usable, as only small areas are permanently used. In the case of open-space photovoltaics, double use (e.g. grazing) is often possible.

With direct power, a company obtains electricity directly from a renewable energy plant — usually via a so-called Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) — instead of from a traditional electricity supplier.

The amount of the lease is usually based on the installed capacity or the electricity yield. A fixed land lease is also common. We are happy to make an individual forecast.

Typically 20 to 30 years — depending on the project, permit and the technical life of the plant.

Prowind develops and implements projects in partnership with municipalities and citizens — from planning to implementation. The focus is on transparency, regional participation and sustainability.

Yes, they do exist. We work in a hybrid way, because flexibility is just as important to us as good cooperation and personal communication within a team. What exactly the division between home office and office looks like depends on your area of responsibility and is coordinated together as a team.

Wind energy and solar systems are designed to last at least 20-25 years. Many projects continue to run economically even beyond that, possibly after repowering or retrofitting.

During planning and construction, the landscape, sound and shadows are taken into account. Citizen energy projects are always developed at Prowind in close coordination with municipalities and in compliance with high environmental standards.

Yes, definitely! We welcome people who show initiative and want to work with us to drive the energy revolution forward — even though there is currently no suitable position advertised. Just tell us what motivates you and how you would like to enrich Prowind with your skills.

More than just an exciting job awaits you at Prowind: We offer you flexible working hours, individual training opportunities, modern workplaces, regular team events and an open, respectful corporate culture. We live sustainability and regionality not only in the project — but also in working together.

Depending on the project, risk and financing structure, the expected return on equity is usually between 5-8%. Exact figures depend on location, technology and electricity marketing model.

It depends on the participation model. Some models have fixed running times, others allow you to opt out. Details can be found in the contract documents.

Revenue is derived from feed-in tariffs (e.g. according to EEG) or from PPA contracts (Power Purchase Agreements). In PPA projects, the income depends on market prices, but is often secured by long-term contracts.

First here on the website, of course. Municipalities or we as project developers usually provide information about information events, local media or social media. If you are interested, it is worthwhile to register early or make a reservation.

Usually through an investment company (e.g. cooperative, GmbH & Co. KG) or through the purchase of shares, subordinated loans or silent investments. Details depend on the specific project.

Yes, there is usually a minimum amount — this varies depending on the project and model (often between 250€ and 2,500€). However, the aim is usually to enable as many citizens as possible to participate.

Every investment involves risks. In the case of citizen energy projects, however, these are often communicated transparently. Reliable project partners and sound economic planning are important.

In addition to a potential return, you actively support the energy transition in your region, strengthen regional added value and contribute to greater independence from fossil fuels.

Citizen energy means: Local people can participate financially or organizationally in an energy project — such as wind or solar parks — and benefit directly from the energy revolution.