Community liaison officer Moira Sharp defended the decision to only supply homes with one set top box and satellite each.

 “We wanted to keep it the same for everyone and it is an interim measure with a view to a longterm solution.”

Ms Sharp acknowledged that complaints about television reception surged once the wind farm started testing at the end of December. They had come from many different places and didn’t necessarily establish a pattern. She estimated 50 to 100 homes could be affected.

 While a transmission tower was a consent condition, the company wanted to find an immediate solution for residents.

 Two technicians have been installing the boxes and satellites.

 “Everyone has been gracious and accepting of the VAST systems,” she said.

 “We’ve given priority to the elderly and people living alone and we thought it was important to distribute them to a man.”

Ms Sharp said the company had also door knocked as many people as possible, distributed information, posted updates on its website and established a complaints register. People could also ring 1800 267 988 for information.

 She said the transmission tower was still a possibility but was subject to a feasibility study. This would determine whether it was the best technical solution given that television had changed from analogue to digital since the consent conditions were handed down.

 “Until construction has been completed and operation started, we can’t say whether it (the tower) would address the problem or where it should be located but there is no doubt we’re committed to finding a solution,” Ms Sharp said.

 She hoped construction would be complete by March/April but could not put a timeframe on operation.