The Coalition has flagged conditional support for a controversial bill that will tighten noise restrictions on wind farms.
The Private Members Bill, introduced by Senators John Madigan and Nick Xenophon, will amend the Renewable Energy Act to make wind farms that generate the background noise of 10 decibels or more when measured within 30 metres of any premises where people congregate ineligible for receiving government assistance by way of RECs (renewable energy certificates).
Shadow Minister for Energy and Resources Ian Macfarlane said the Coalition was “broadly supportive” of the bill. It will, however, seek to have it amended to include a requirement for an independent National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) research program into the potential health effects of wind farms.
Mr Macfarlane said the decision was not indicative of a set against wind power.
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