Solar Energy Investments And Environmental Impacts – OpEd

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An investor in the Tulumtaş region of Ankara has made the decision to construct a solar power plant based on the environmentally friendly energy source of solar energy. This decision aims to promote the use of solar energy, which is an environmentally conscious method of energy production. However, this investment decision has been met with opposition from the local residents of the area. Villa owners have raised objections, claiming that the solar power plant panels will have adverse environmental and health effects, leading to legal actions aimed at canceling the investment.

Content of the Objections:

Local residents have made the following claims regarding the environmental and health effects of the solar power plant:

1. Dangers of Magnetic Fields: Opponents argue that the solar power plant will create magnetic fields that could be harmful to human health. They have noted the absence of scientific research and evidence regarding the health effects of magnetic fields.

2. Environmental Impacts: Concerned individuals have expressed worries about the environmental impacts of the solar power plant, suggesting that it could disrupt environmental balances and negatively affect natural ecosystems.

3. Violation of Permits: Advocates for the investment claim that all necessary permits have been obtained, but they raise doubts about how these permits were granted and the transparency of the permit process.

The issue of magnetic fields and the impact of electromagnetic fields on human health is often exaggerated and sometimes misused. In solar energy plants, the energy generated is in the form of direct current (DC), which is used to charge batteries. It is later converted to alternating current (AC) using inverters. DC current does not emit electromagnetic radiation. By using inverters that comply with CE regulations, and considering that these circuits will be enclosed within a metal panel, the environmental impact is expected to be negligible.

Need for Information and Research:

These objections raise important questions about the potential environmental and health effects of the solar energy plant. The seriousness and validity of these objections should be based on scientific evidence. Therefore, an in-depth investigation and research into the magnetic fields and environmental impacts of the solar energy plant are necessary. The academic articles and scientific evidence presented to relevant authorities can be a valuable resource for answering these questions.

Solar energy investments are a crucial matter concerning both the environment and human health. Objections and concerns should be taken seriously and evaluated based on scientific foundations. Further research is required to determine the effects of environmental impacts and magnetic fields on human health. In this way, a balance can be achieved between energy production and environmental sustainability.

Haluk Direskeneli

Haluk Direskeneli, is a graduate of METU Mechanical Engineering department (1973). He worked in public, private enterprises, USA Turkish JV companies (B&W, CSWI, AEP, Entergy), in fabrication, basic and detail design, marketing, sales and project management of thermal power plants. He is currently working as freelance consultant/ energy analyst with thermal power plants basic/ detail design software expertise for private engineering companies, investors, universities and research institutions. He is a member of Chamber of Turkish Mechanical Engineers Energy Working Group.

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