Borgarbyggð rejects proposed Alviðra wind farm

Borgarbyggð’s municipal executive council opposes the proposed wind farm at Alviðra on Grjótháls and wants it placed in the protection category of Iceland’s framework plan, rather than the waiting category, according to mbl.is. The designation would prevent the proposed development from proceeding.

The council’s submission concerns a proposal to classify seven wind power projects. It was approved unanimously, and the municipal manager was asked to submit it through the government’s consultation portal.

The submission says Alviðra received the highest assessment for natural values among the seven projects considered. The development is also expected to have significant effects on the landscape, fishing and tourism in Borgarfjörður. According to assessments by the framework plan’s expert groups, Alviðra would have the most negative social effects of the seven options.

The council says there is strong local opposition and that no evidence has been presented showing what economic benefits the project would bring to the local community.

It also disputes placing the project in the waiting category, arguing that this category should be used when further research or information is needed, while expert assessments have already been completed. The council warns that research permits can be issued for projects in the waiting category, and that work such as building access tracks and installing measurement masts can disturb nature.

Borgarbyggð’s current master plan does not allow wind farms. The council says placing Alviðra in the protection category would best match the municipality’s planning policy.

The article notes that around 30 to 40 wind farm projects are being prepared through planning and assessment processes across Iceland.