Wind energy is gaining support in Virginia's far west, according to the Associated Press.

I live in an area where the proposed construction of 400-foot high wind turbines has become a contentious issue. Supporters of the region's coal industry see wind as a competitive threat. Local residents (environmentalists or otherwise) fear the environmental damage construction may cause. Tourism officials think that having wind turbines visible from the scenic overlooks and small hamlets of Appalachia will mean few visitors and less tourism revenue.

There's a curt battle going on in Wise County (Virginia's Kentucky boarder) over the environmental impact of a coal-fired power plant that Dominion Virginia Power is building there. But the group bringing the suit (The Wise Energy for Virginia Coalition) has now expressed support for Dominion's joint wind power venture with BP in the area.

I expect to see a lot more political bloodshed in Appalachia before the issue of wind turbines is completely settled.


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