Publikationen (FIS)
Nothing to regret
Reconciling renewable energies with human wellbeing and nature in the German Energy Transition
- authored by
- Julia Wiehe, Julia Thiele, Anna Walter, Ali Hashemifarzad, Jens Zum Hingst, Christina von Haaren
- Abstract
Although the transition to energy supply through renewables (RE) is, in general, politically accepted in Germany, its progress is slowed by conflicting interests, primarily nature conservation and protesting residents. This study aims to find ways to solve these conflicts in Germany. To this end, the researchers developed a geospatial model that calculates RE potentials and vulnerabilities of nature and humans. Both data input and some evaluation standards are variables in the model. The outcomes are compared to an estimated total energy demand in 2050. Two ambitious scenarios (“no regret” and “compromise”) show that a maximum of 4% of the German territory is available to meet the energy demand. This demand can be met using PV in urban areas and wind in rural landscapes without significantly impairing nature's and people's wellbeing. Solar parks and other potentials not considered in the model are treated as a reserve, which can be included if the energy targets are not met under the assumed scenario conditions. Such reserves also provide flexibility for co-determination in public participation.
- Organisation(s)
-
Institute of Environmental Planning
- External Organisation(s)
-
CUTEC Clausthal Environmental Technology Research Centre
- Type
- Article
- Journal
- International Journal of Energy Research
- Volume
- 45
- Pages
- 745-758
- No. of pages
- 14
- ISSN
- 0363-907X
- Publication date
- 22.12.2020
- Publication status
- Published
- Peer reviewed
- Yes
- ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment, Nuclear Energy and Engineering, Fuel Technology, Energy Engineering and Power Technology
- Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
- Electronic version(s)
-
https://doi.org/10.1002/er.5870 (Access:
Open)
https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7002 (Access: Open)