Energy Landscape

Habitats and Natural Environments

Species Protection

Methods and Management Approaches

Recording and Monitoring

energy landscape

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.

Funded projects

habitats and natural environments

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.

Funded projects

species protection

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.

Funded projects

methods and management approaches

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.

Funded projects

recording and monitoring

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.

Funded projects

Research on the inclusion of nature conservation in the energy transition in Germany

Expanding renewable energies in harmony with the interests of nature conservation is the focus of a number of research projects currently supported by the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN).