Elektrownie wiatrowe w opiniach mieszkańców wsi leżących w ich sąsiedztwie

The research presented in the article plays a pioneering role for studies dealing with the public attitude towards wind energy in Poland. As for the first time the research concentrated on the opinions of residents living in a close vicinity of wind farms. As the result 171 detailed questionnaires (based on monographic method) were collected in three communes located in the Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Łódzkie and Podlaskie Voivodships. The questions covered the issues of wind turbines impact, contacts with turbine owners, as well as inhabitants' opinions on the role of local authorities in the location process. The general attitude of residents towards renewable energy sources was also examined. The inhabitants more frequently than other study respondents pointed to inconveniences and hazards resulting from the turbine operation. Wind power investors are not known to the majority of residents. The inhabitants do not know to whom they should appeal in emergency situations. At the same time they expect additional financial involvement of investors in the commune. The weaknesses of public consultations conducted by municipal authorities, proofed in previous studies, was confirmed. The lack of a proper consultation process seems to be a missed opportunity that could prevent many unjustified claims and social conflicts. In addition, the study showed that the implementation of investments without a local plan has an additional negative impact on the public opinion on the wind farm installations.