255ft High Wind Turbine Threatens Wireless Broadband to Devon UK Village

Residents of Northlew village in Devon (England) have complained that new plans to build a 255ft tall wind turbine in nearby Inwardleigh could disrupt the wifi signal of their wireless community broadband service, which serves approximately 150 local homes (500 people).

As Thinkbroadband points out, a 2008 study by Ofcom found that such turbines could disrupt wireless signals but the interference would only become hugely significant if a larger wind farm was built. The BBC article states that a further two turbines are already being proposed for Barnstaple and Totnes, although these might not be close enough to be considered a “wind farm“.

John Malone, Spokesman for Energy 4 All (Turbine Builder), said:

“The advice we’re getting is there is a possibility [of interference] but it is unlikely. We need to undertake the appropriate assessments.”

Further details about the local campaign to stop the development can be found here:

http://www.northlew.com/turbine/