LCA methodology provides an understandable and consistent tool to evaluate the environmental

impact of the different phases of wind plant installations. LCA estimates the benefits of electricity
from renewable energy sources compared to conventional technologies in a fully documented and
clear way.

The construction of the wind turbine is the most important phase in term of the environmental
effects produced by wind energy, both for offshore wind power plants and onshore wind power
plants. Environmental impacts generated in transportation and operation phases cannot be
considered significant in relation to the total environmental impacts of both the offshore and
onshore wind power plants. However, in offshore wind power plants, zinc is discharged from
offshore cables during the operational stage.

The disposal scenario has great importance for the environmental profile of the electricity generated
from wind power plants. Environmental impacts are directly dependent on the recycling level, with a
higher amount of recycling resulting in a better environmental result.

The energy balance of wind energy is very positive. The energy consumed in the whole chain of wind
plants is recovered in several average operational months. The comparison of wind energy with
conventional technologies highlights the environmental advantages of wind energy. Quite significant
emissions reductions can be obtained by producing electricity in wind farms instead of using
conventional technologies such as coal and natural gas combined cycle power plants.

The significant benefits of wind energy should play an increasingly important role in deciding what
kinds of new power plants will be built.