North Rhine-Westphalia: Wind energy: black-green cabinet adopts key points

Düsseldorf (dpa/lnw) - The state cabinet has set the course for the expansion of renewable energies in North Rhine-Westphalia.

North Rhine-Westphalia: Wind energy: black-green cabinet adopts key points

Düsseldorf (dpa/lnw) - The state cabinet has set the course for the expansion of renewable energies in North Rhine-Westphalia. On Tuesday, it passed key points for the necessary changes to the state development plan (LEP), as reported by the NRW Ministry of Economic Affairs on Wednesday in Düsseldorf. The cornerstones are primarily about the expansion of wind energy. Two months after signing the coalition agreement, the black-green state government has thus initiated the implementation of important projects.

According to this, areas for the expansion should be distributed fairly among the various regions in North Rhine-Westphalia. The 1500 meter distance requirement is to be lifted. In the future, wind turbines should also be possible on damaged forest areas. Commercial and industrial areas are also to be used. Changes in the LEP should also enable the greater expansion of solar energy systems.

The cornerstones mean a first step towards the responsible provision of space, explained Economics and Climate Protection Minister Mona Neubaur (Greens). "It is important to me to take people with me and to support the regions in the best possible way in the expansion of renewable energies."

The Ministry of Economics announced that it would prepare a draft for the changes to the state development plan and an environmental report based on the key points. The state's wind potential study is also currently being revised in order to ensure a fair distribution of the wind energy areas to the individual planning regions. Participation by citizens is planned for spring 2023.