

Energy Landscape
Habitats and Natural Environments
Species Protection
Methods and Management Approaches
Recording and Monitoring
This topic deals with the connection between the landscape and the energy transition. The research concentrates on the visible developments to be expected in our landscapes and what particular aspects must be kept in mind in the design of the energy landscape. This involves particular attention to the planning methods and cooperation opportunities with the public. Another focus is on how the visible landscape is evaluated.
In order to reduce the effects of the expansion in renewable energies on habitats and particular species, it is first essential to be able to describe and evaluate these precisely. Research on this is taking place using development analyses, case studies and biological indicators to determine the large-scale effects on biodiversity of different energy systems in the energy transition. The main focus is on issues of the continuity and reconnection of habitats.
Technical systems for generating renewable energy can cause conflicts, especially for protected species. A series of projects is examining if and how birds, bats and fish are negatively affected by various systems and how this can be evaluated in the context of the legal protection of individual species. In addition, attention is being given to how the negative effects can be successfully prevented or reduced in practice.
The planning of energy plants and power lines occurs at different levels – such as the national or regional level – and in addition is dependent on many other factors. Further projects therefore address the ways in which the different requirements of nature conservation and the energy industry can be taken into account at the planning stage.
In order to be able to respond in an appropriate way when animals and habitats are negatively affected by renewable energies, and to improve predictions of the impact of planned developments, there is a need for the systematic observation and evaluation of the effects of existing systems and uses. This is the focus of recording and monitoring.
How can the expansion in renewable energies be designed in harmony with nature? The Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN) is providing expert scientific advice on this question to the Federal Ministry of the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (Bundesumweltministerium, BMUB). Research by the BfN always has a practical application and generates scientific results for advising government i.e. supplies a basis for decision-making for the preparation, implementation, monitoring and further development of nature conservation measures and the Federal Government's nature conservation policy.