Analysis of Wind Power Plants in Terms of Landscape Architecture: The Case Study of Çeşme, İzmir

Abstract

Energy industry has become one of the most important sectors due to increase in the world's population, urbanization and the level of welfare in social life. The electrical energy needs of people are also increasing. The current fossil resources that are used in the production of electrical energy are limited and surely they will run out one day. Today’s conventional energy production and consumption techniques are known to cause local, regional and global adverse effects on people, environment and natural resources. Therefore, production and consumption of energies without damaging the environment is of great importance.

In this study, possible effects of wind power plants on the immediate surroundings were analyzed from landscape architecture point of view. The study includes an evaluation of new suggested area for wind power plant in Kocadağ and Karadağ Hills in Çeşme, İzmir, Turkey. Within the scope of the study, field surveys were carried out and an inventory of the region's natural and cultural landscapes was done. Various analysis such as; soil erosion, habitat, landscape character and visual analysis were created. At the end, suitability of the study area for the construction of wind power plants was discussed.

As a result in the process of construction, wind power plant project must target to minimize environmental damage, potential erosion hazards and visual quality losses. In order to protect the natural structure, landscape restorations must be carried out after the construction of the site and field observations should be made.This study stated objectives, measures, and precautions in case of building turbines in the area.