More acceptance for wind power: How to succeed in expanding it with the support of the population

Renewable energies now account for the majority of electricity generation in Germany. This is also important because, on the one hand, they are cheaper to produce than fossil fuels such as coal. On the other hand, CO² emissions are significantly lower, making them indispensable in the fight against climate change.

Wind energy has the most economical expansion potential in the short to medium term. However, the expansion is not progressing fast enough to meet the climate targets. There are a variety of reasons for this. One of them is the recurring resistance among the population.

In principle, this is not incomprehensible. Wind turbines, known in technical jargon as wind turbines, cause noise and light emissions and represent an intervention in nature. Many residents are therefore often skeptical at first when a new wind farm project is planned in their community.

It is therefore essential for the success of the energy transition to take into account the people and communities in whose neighbourhood the projects are planned. The acceptance of such projects is measurably increased by measures that not only reduce the disadvantages, but also offer advantages.

Transparency and co-determination are the keys to acceptance. Municipalities should be involved in the planning of new wind power projects at an early stage. Public information events, citizens' forums and digital platforms allow residents to ask questions and raise concerns. Those who feel heard and taken seriously are more willing to support the projects.

Community wind farms are an effective way to create acceptance. If residents are financially involved in wind power projects, they benefit directly from the yields. This can be done through cooperative models or citizen participation. Anyone who is a co-owner of a wind turbine does not regard it as a foreign body, but as part of the joint project.

Wind turbines not only generate clean energy, but can also help improve municipal infrastructure. Direct financial participation by the municipalities – for example through a feed-in tariff or levies per kilowatt hour generated – creates tangible benefits for residents. These funds can be used specifically for daycare centres, schools or sports facilities and significantly increase acceptance.

A common point of criticism of wind turbines is the night-time lighting, which is perceived as disturbing. On-demand night marking (BNK) ensures that the warning lights are only switched on when an aircraft is actually approaching. Modern systems with transponder receivers can control this efficiently and thus reduce light pollution. Since the beginning of the year, the equipping of wind turbines with such a system has been mandatory in Germany.

A critical point is the protection of the environment and wildlife, especially birds and bats. Conflicts can be minimised through intelligent location selection, better monitoring systems and technical solutions such as automatic shut-off mechanisms in the event of increased bird numbers.

Acceptance of wind power does not arise by itself – it must be actively promoted. Early involvement of residents, financial participation opportunities and technical improvements such as needs-based night marking help to reduce reservations and see wind power as an opportunity. If local people benefit, support for the energy transition increases considerably.