Planning for renewables in an uncertain world: key takeaways from analysing the German onshore approach

The study addresses planning related regulations for the expansion of onshore wind turbines (OWT) and ground-mounted photovoltaic (GM-PV) based on the example of Germany – a pioneering country for the expansion of renewable energies, in which some innovative planning approaches have been implemented in recent years. The strengths and weaknesses of the complex multi-tier framework are identified, and content-driven options for further improvement are outlined – flanked by a theory-orientated discussion. Emphasis is placed on a sensible spatial distribution, taking energy system-related requirements and increasing military threats into account. Many theoretical findings are general in nature, and the corresponding recommendations may be transferable to other countries in Europe (and beyond). Some relate directly to EU Directives.