Study on bird protection slows down Tyrolean wind energy

A study on wind power and bird conservation in Tyrol, commissioned by the Tyrolean state government from a nature conservation organization, has put a damper on the state's wind power plans. The study identifies significant impacts on birdlife from wind power use, according to a report in the "Tiroler Tageszeitung" (Thursday edition). Of the 54 wind power projects submitted to the state, only three passed a preliminary review.

The topographical conditions in Alpine Tyrol are also responsible for this. From an ornithological perspective, the impacts of wind farms on birdlife are crucial, according to a new study by the animal welfare organization BirdLife. The ornithological sensitivity map shows Tyrol predominantly in red zones, while wind power sensitivity with regard to birdlife is classified as high or very high, the "TT" reported. In addition, other spatial planning exclusion criteria apply.

In the debate about wind turbines in Tyrol two years ago, the state government presented an updated wind power potential study. According to this study, 3.3 to 4.9 percent of current total energy demand could be met by wind power. In addition, a bonus of €100,000 was to be paid for the first wind turbine built.

FPÖ against wind power, Greens see potential in valleys and hillsides

Critical voices emerged from the opposition on Thursday. The FPÖ (Freedom Party of Austria) called the idea of building wind turbines in Tyrol "absurd," while the Greens criticized the state government for its "lack of planning" on the issue of wind power. "The idea of building wind turbines in Tyrol is just as absurd as the attempt to build a pumped-storage power plant in Burgenland," said Freedom Party state parliament member Andreas Gang. Wind power has "no future whatsoever" in Tyrol. The "true energy potential of Tyrol" lies in hydropower, emphasized the Tyrolean FPÖ. The state's natural environment must not be sacrificed for "unsuitable prestige projects."

In contrast, the Tyrolean Greens criticized the lack of a spatial planning framework for wind power. This is leading to "increasing frustration," said Green Party leader Gebi Mair. Regarding wind power, Mair called on the state government to take responsibility for "any courage to make clear statements." On the other hand, "acceleration zones for hydropower operators are prescribed by law." Wind power, however, could be possible in valleys and hillsides in Tyrol, the Greens emphasized. However, it is out of the question in the mountains.

APA