Danish Parliament supports expansion of National Test Center for Large Wind Turbines in Østerild, Thy

A significant majority in the Danish Parliament supports the expansion of the National Test Center for Large Wind Turbines in Østerild, Thy, to accommodate 450-meter-high turbines. This initiative is deemed crucial for maintaining Denmark’s leadership in green technology and protecting thousands of jobs in the wind turbine industry, according to Minister for Cities and Rural Areas Morten Dahlin.

The expansion plan involves the northern area, which would effectively erase the small village of Hjardemål Klit from the map. Approximately 34 properties in the vicinity will need to be expropriated and demolished due to noise concerns, impacting families like the Bundgårds, who have operated a farm in the area for decades. Anders Kristensen Bundgård, 66, expressed deep regret about potentially losing the family farm, which has expanded from 54 to 900 cows since he took over in 1978.

Similarly affected is the Middelboe family, who moved to the area seeking tranquility. After 20 years in their thatched-roof home, they are now facing expropriation due to the test center’s expansion. With plans to bring in five additional test turbines, many residents feel helpless, as the expropriation will eliminate contributions they make to local schools, community life, and businesses.

The Minister acknowledged the difficult position of the residents, noting that the decision was made with the least possible disturbance in mind. However, he also stressed that a comprehensive environmental impact assessment must be completed before final approvals, which may prolong the uncertainty for affected families.

Østerild is recognized as the best location in Europe for testing large wind turbines due to its favorable wind conditions, underscoring the importance of the test center for Denmark’s renewable energy ambitions.