German air navigation services provider DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung is reducing the size of its protected areas around omnidirectional radio beacons, paving the way for more onshore wind development.
The move will open up new areas to wind turbine installation in the vicinity of its radio navigation aids in Germany.
The organisation said the move will make a “significant contribution” to the transition to renewable energy and required “intensive cooperation” between a range of official public departments.
German federal minister for digital and transport Volker Wissing said: “Wind power is of great importance for climate-friendly energy supply in our country.
“On the basis of the latest scientific findings, we have made it possible in a very short time to reduce the safe distances between wind turbines and air navigation and meteorological facilities.
“This will lead to a quicker expansion of wind power generation. We have now removed a significant obstacle in this process.
“My thanks go to all those involved who have managed to constructively reconcile the different requirements with great commitment.”
Federal minister for economic affairs and climate action Robert Habeck added: “We will have more areas for wind energy whilst safeguarding the safety of radio navigation.
“This successful cooperation with the aviation authorities is a very good example of how we are removing barriers at all levels to accelerate the expansion of renewable energy sources.
“As these measures taken by DFS are opening up more spaces for the erection of wind turbines, there will be a significant improvement in the ability to issue permissions for future planning applications for wind turbines.”