Tongeren-Borgloon (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Flemish Minister Jo Brouns approves 5 of 14 Ventori wind turbines between Riemst and Tongeren-Borgloon, rejecting 9, giving clarity to residents, local authorities, and energy companies.
As VRT News reported, Flemish Environment Minister Jo Brouns (CD&V) has rejected 9 of the 14 wind turbines planned in the Ventori project between Riemst and Tongeren-Borgloon, in the province of Limburg, Belgium.
Minister Brouns said only turbines that are consistent with sound spatial planning and that respect local living conditions, will be allowed.
“This is a very extensive application, with an application for 14 wind turbines on a plot the size of a handkerchief. The wind turbines would therefore exceed the region’s carrying capacity.”
Minister Brouns
What Changes Did Minister Brouns Make to the Ventori Wind Turbine Project?
Officials mentioned that the Ventori wind farm project raised concerns because some areas, including Elst, would have been almost surrounded by turbines. Some turbines did not fit well with existing infrastructure, such as highways, while others would have too much visual impact due to their height. Several turbines were also located too close to homes, causing worries about noise, safety, and daily life for residents.
To address these issues, the project has been limited to 5 wind turbines. Authorities say this reduces the impact on the landscape and nearby communities while still producing a large amount of wind energy. The 5 turbines together are expected to generate enough electricity to cover the annual needs of about 25,000 households.
“We’re committed to renewable energy, but with respect for local livability. The scale of this project and its visual impact were too large to accommodate all the turbines. Where installation is possible without disproportionate impacts on the surrounding area, we’ll grant permits. Where that’s not possible, we’ll draw a clear line,”
Brouns concludes.
The Flanders region has been experiencing an increase in opposition to wind farm projects in the last several years. In the public consultation period conducted between 2022 to 2024, over 3,000 objections/petitions against wind farm projects have been submitted. Both Riemst Municipality and Tongeren-Borgloon have made negative recommendations based on their concern about the environmental impact of wind farm projects.
