MS#09.1 Assessing wind power integration in Europe while considering impacts on society and the environment

A. HAHMANN¹, L.E. RAMIREZ², R. HUETING³, C.MADRID LÓPEZ⁴, C. MIKOVITS⁵
¹ DTU Dept of Wind and Energy Systems|² Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University|³ DeepBlue, Italy|⁴ Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Spain|⁵ Institute of Sustainable Economic Development, BOKU University, Austria

Policy, economics, planification and environmental impacts

Wind energy plays a crucial role in the European strategy towards the transition towards a renewable energy system. However, many potential challenges could result in delays in utilizing the potential of wind resources. Wind power deployment is confronted with societal opposition due to concerns over physical, visual and environmental impacts, as well as debates about the viability of other energy sources. The variability of wind energy presents challenges for grid integration and stability, requiring substantial investments in energy storage and infrastructure. Regulatory obstacles, lengthy permitting processes, and a need for more skills and capacity at the governmental level further slow project deployment. Additionally, high upfront costs, competition for land, and concerns over who benefits or is disadvantaged by wind energy projects contribute to the complexity of its expansion. The recent rise in material costs and waste management further exacerbates these challenges. Providing insights on overcoming these barriers will require collaborative efforts and innovative approaches to ensure successful integration into Europe’s energy landscape.

In this collaborative mini-symposium, organized by partners of the Horizon Europe projects WIMBY and JUSTWIND4ALL, we aim to provide a space to share new developments on the way wind power could be further deployed in Europe while taking into consideration its impacts on society and the environment. We welcome contributions dedicated to individual impacts and studies assessing the potential integration of wind power while considering these impacts more comprehensively and going beyond mere techno-economic optimization. Successful case studies, research, and experiences promoting informed and collaborative decision-making and transdisciplinary work are also welcome.