Der Kampf gegen die Windräder

About the Film

Norway is planning one of the largest offshore wind farms in Europe with over 300 wind turbines off its west coast. The picturesque area around the city of Ålesund with its islands is threatened by this major project. Initially, the construction of the wind turbines was supported, but then the inhabitants of Ålesund organized a referendum against the gigantic wind farm, which is to lead the state of Norway out of the energy crisis. The west coast of Norway is one of the windiest regions in Europe. When the autumn storms begin in October, wind speeds up to 120 kilometers per hour are not uncommon.

The film tells of the worries of the residents regarding the planned wind farm. For the teacher and fisherman Arne Tunheim and the musician Runa Godø Sæther the wind turbines would be a disaster. The untouched nature and the open view of the sea means everything to them, that’s the reason why they live there. Both are optimistic that they will win the battle against the wind turbines, because in Norway, local democracy has a long tradition and a high priority. The Oslo government has never overruled the decision of a referendum.

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