Nature must be protected– no exemption for renewable energy developers

Renewable energy development is a complex business. Often, the development of a renewable energy project starts three to four years before any actual construction. There is a development, engineering, procurement, and financing phase – and after all those phases have been completed, most project developers are keen to commence construction.

Yet, projects may be abruptly halted or delayed if, for instance, an EU protected species is found within or near the project area, potentially necessitating further investigations into impacts and possibilities of mitigation.

Ultimately, it could lead to a complete restart of local planning process and require a new environmental impact assessment.

Therefore, it is necessary to integrate environmental concerns from an early onset to have proper risk management of the renewable energy projects.

“Environmental considerations must be prioritised from the initial stages of a renewable energy project. They are fundamental to the deployment of renewable energy,” says Lars Midtiby, CEO of the Danish Society for Nature Conservation.

In today’s context, the development of large-scale renewable energy projects demands significant financial investments. Companies overlooking the importance of environmental sustainability risk having their projects invalidated due to such neglect.

Partnering up
The Danish Society for Nature Conservation underscores the necessity of expanding renewable energy capacity but insists that good renewable energy projects should inherently integrate nature conservation and biodiversity.

“We have forged partnerships with some of Denmark’s largest renewable energy companies, recognising their impact on our natural landscapes. These companies play a crucial role in the green transition, and we seek to maintain an ongoing dialogue and partnership with them,” Midtiby emphasises.

A landmark agreement between the Danish Society for Nature Conservation and European Energy exemplifies this approach, mandating that new renewable energy projects in Denmark should enhance the biodiversity and nature in the area. The agreement outlines nine crucial guidelines for European Energy on developing renewable energy parks, including the early integration of environmental and nature conservation concerns.

“We see an encouraging trend of renewable energy developers incorporating environmental and nature conservation considerations from the very beginning of their projects. It’s no longer feasible to proceed with development without addressing potential environmental issues in the project area,” Midtiby notes.

Implementing nature conservation strategies, such as surrounding a solar park with expansive living fences, provides habitats for insects, birds, and small rodents while shielding neighbours from the sight of the energy park. Moreover, incorporating flower meadows within solar parks promotes biodiversity, offering a sanctuary for insect populations essential for pollinating various plant species.

“While solar parks are not the panacea for the biodiversity crisis, it’s crucial they do not exacerbate the situation. What’s imperative is the creation of more cohesive natural areas,” says Midtiby.

Land for nature
European Energy’s commitment, as part of its agreement with the Danish Society for Nature Conservation, includes purchasing land dedicated to nature conservation with each new renewable energy project. The land purchases and restoration projects will be conducted in collaboration either with The Danish Nature Fund, municipalities and other local stakeholders.

The first land purchase, in this effort from European Energy, was to contribute to an 83-hectare restoration project called Tørskind Hills in Vejle municipality in Denmark. This project by The Danish Nature Fund aims to restore vital nectar plants and provide a sustainable food source for insects, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between renewable energy development and environmental stewardship.

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