The canton of Zurich has great potential for unused renewable energy, including wind energy.
(Intern WK) – Now more than ever, these energy sources need to be harnessed.
Construction then took a closer look at the potential of wind energy and made it clear where it might be worth it and how to proceed. The focus is on dialogue with those involved.
In view of the climate crisis and the uncertain international supply situation following the war in Ukraine, the use of domestic renewable energies is a priority. The 2022 Energy Strategy of the Canton of Zurich therefore aims, among other things, to exploit the potential of wind energy in the Canton of Zurich. The strategy assumes that around seven percent of the canton’s electricity needs can be covered by this source in 2050. Wind energy is an ideal complement to solar and hydroelectric energy, as two thirds of this occurs in the winter months.
Clarify and improve as much as possible
In this context, the Department of Construction of the Canton of Zurich has examined in depth where and how much wind energy could be used in the Canton of Zurich and how to proceed. This is also due to the federal mandate to define suitable areas for wind energy in the cantonal structure plan. Under federal law, the use and expansion of renewable energy has been of national importance since 2018, which means it can be weighed against other national interests. In addition, Construction is evaluating the possibility of speeding up the planning and approval process for wind farms through the revision of the cantonal law on planning and construction (PPG). The purpose of this procedure is to clarify and, if possible, improve the conditions for the use of wind energy.
Potential areas accurately assessed
New assessments show more precisely than before and on the basis of the new national framework conditions which wind energy resources could be used in the canton of Zurich. Construction has compared these assessments with exclusion criteria; Proximity to inhabited buildings (noise), air traffic and other infrastructures, fauna, flora, protection of landscape and cultural heritage, water bodies and wind. This has led to a new map with potential areas where it might be possible and useful to use wind energy.
Suitable areas are identified in the dialogue
Construction is now examining in detail the suitability of these potential areas in close collaboration with possible site communities, nature and landscape protection associations and the wind energy industry, identifying additional reasons for exclusion and possibly also additional potential. On this basis, it then weighs the interests and defines the actual areas of suitability for the next revision of the structural plan. For these, he conducts an audition as part of a public requirement. The Governing Council therefore requests the cantonal council to include the remaining eligible areas in the cantonal structure plan.
A planning and approval process is also required
If an energy supply company wants to build a wind turbine in one of these suitable areas, a planning and approval process is required, during which appropriate legal remedies can be taken.
PM: Canton of Zurich
PB: Wind energy can contribute to winter electricity supply in the canton of Zurich
