Wind power continues to emerge as a prominent source of renewable energy for many parts of the developed world, but the power source has encountered some opposition in the northern European nation of the Netherlands.

Reuters reports that the populous province of North Holland, home to the city of Amsterdam, has suggested the possibility of banning all further wind power projects after the completion of a major new installation currently in the planning stages.

Frans Nederstigt, a government spokesman, explained that newer wind turbines are growing steadily taller, making them a blemish on the surrounding landscape. The growing number of such installations is also contributing to an increasing amount of noise pollution.

Critics argue that the decision is ultimately short-sighted, but the measure banning wind energy projects is expected to be completed within the coming months.

"We have about 300 turbines in the province generating about 330 megawatts, meaning North Holland is already a front-runner in wind energy," said Nederstigt.

The European Wind Energy Association notes that Holland had the ninth-most wind power at the end of 2011, though it has fallen far behind in terms of capacity additions.

PennEnergy's Research area offers updates on the wind market in the Netherlands.