The Prime Minister has told parliament Mepa was recommending more caution over the installation of wind turbines in residential areas.

When treating applications for wind turbines, the authority took note of the population density because such turbines could cause inconvenience to neighbours due to noise and vibrations. In addition, Mepa had the technical advice that, when one took note of the intensity of the wind, and the turbulence caused in many residential areas, the amount of electricity generated would probably be low.

The collective visual impact of these structures was another reason for being cautious.

Mepa had approved a number of turbines in non-residential areas.

It also removed the requirement for applications for the instalment if solar water heaters and photovoltaics as long as they fell within set criteria.

Dr Gonzi added it was scientifically proven that solar water heaters, if installed professionally, made a big difference in electricity consumption.

The Prime Minister was answering a question by Anthony Agius Decelis (PL).

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