- Geobiologists are criticised for using unverified methods to detect “telluric currents” near wind farms. Experts label their practices pseudoscience, lacking scientific validation.
- Despite the controversy, some geobiologists defend their work, while the renewable energy sector raises concerns over the potential exploitation of farmers’ fears regarding unexplained disturbances.
Geobiologists sit at the centre of a growing controversy related to wind farm development. Critics accuse them of charlatanism due to unverified practices. These professionals claim to detect “telluric currents” that they believe impact livestock, especially cattle. However, scientific validation for these claims remains absent.
Reports have surfaced of geobiologists working on various wind projects. In one instance, an anonymous employee from a wind developer described a geobiologist shaking a plastic rod to find underground watercourses. The premise suggests these hidden flows may disrupt animals living near wind turbines.
2017, another wind project enlisted a geobiologist after a farmer raised concerns about telluric currents. The geobiologist suggested a method to “inform” the concrete slab before pouring. This process involved adding a homoeopathic product called Pneumatit. Unconventional practices, such as Bible readings and playing classical music during production, formed part of the method.
Critics have slammed geobiology as pseudoscience. Sébastien Point, a physicist at CNRS, argues that the discipline uses scientific-sounding terminology like “cosmo-telluric chimneys” and “torsion fields” without any factual basis. “We’ve known for two centuries that it’s a scam,” he asserted.
Despite the criticism, many geobiologists defend their work. Bernard Olifirenko, president of the National Confederation of Geobiology, states that people should not judge the profession based on the actions of a few unscrupulous individuals.
Geobiology has gained traction in areas like Loire-Atlantique. Some projects incorporate it into preliminary studies before wind turbine installations. The Pays de la Loire Chamber of Agriculture has even created a protocol that requires wind companies to fund these geobiological assessments. However, the prefecture clarifies that officials do not mandate these diagnostics by law.
Robin Dixon, representing France Renouvelables, denounced the situation as “soft law.” He explained that failing to conduct geobiological studies could hinder project developers from obtaining necessary administrative approvals. This holds even if all other environmental assessments get completed.
While geobiology has gained popularity in certain regions, experts warn that no causal link has been established between telluric currents and disturbances reported by farmers. The National Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment Research (Inrae) points out the scarcity of rigorous scientific studies.
The controversy raises concerns about the potential for geobiology to become a profitable venture for some practitioners. Critics fear these individuals may exploit the distress of farmers facing unexplained phenomena.
As wind energy projects proliferate, developers face pressure to address farmers’ concerns, which may lead them to consider unscientific methods. This dynamic places geobiology in a contentious position within the renewable energy landscape.
The geobiology debate highlights the need for scientifically validated practices in renewable energy projects. As the sector evolves, stakeholders must balance addressing concerns and adhering to rigorous scientific standards. Please do so to avoid reputational harm and operational challenges for wind farm developers. This situation underscores the importance of transparency and evidence-based practices as the industry progresses.