Nature conservation in planning and permitting procedures

Nature conservation considerations must be taken into account at an early stage in planning and authorisation procedures. Research is developing methods and practical approaches for this purpose, which can serve as a basis for assessment and decision-making, with a view to increasing legal certainty and enhancing the environmental sustainability of the energy transition.

The accelerated expansion of renewable energy is presenting new challenges for planning and permitting procedures. Research and development projects are investigating whether the comprehensive new legal regulations will lead to simplification and whether environmental protection standards can be maintained in the process.

With funding from the BMUKN, the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN) supports research projects in the field of ‘nature conservation and renewable energy’ that aim to further develop planning tools and nature conservation impact assessment methods. The following overview brings together projects focusing on nature conservation in the planning and approval stages – ranging from the development and optimisation of assessment methods under species protection legislation, through practical guidelines for implementation, to the legal framework for ensuring that the energy transition is carried out in a way that is compatible with nature.