Wind power in the Mühlviertel: A crisis discussion about nature and energy

Wind power in the Mühlviertel: A crisis discussion about nature and energy

Mühlviertel, Österreich - The discussion about the expansion of wind turbines in the Mühlviertel slowly absorbs speed. Norbert Königsecker, a citizen from Reichenthal, has spoken out and brings up important aspects. In a letter to the editor on Tips he expresses that the planned projects in the municipalities are causing tensions. While Königsecker supports the vision of emission -free energy, he warns of the different types of energy generation.

Königsecker speaks against the planned establishment of large photovoltaic systems on meadows, since in his eyes the unused roofs offer unused potential. He also has wind turbines - especially those that are to be built in forests and in agricultural areas. The loss of habitats and the impairment of ecosystems are important for him. He particularly emphasizes the role of the forests for carbon storage and climate protection.

The resistance is formed

The concerns of Königsecker are popular with various organizations that mobilize against the planned wind turbines. The nature conservation association, the Alpine Association and the Citizens' Initiative "No to Windpark 2 in Schenkenfelden" are just a few actors who, according to a report, on Kurier make the landscape in the Mühlviertel strong. Environmental attorney Martin Donat has made it clear that it is not a principle against wind power as a renewable energy source, but rather about the specific locations of the planned systems.

The plans provide to build almost 60 new wind turbines in the region. The height of the new wind turbines of up to 260 meters is described as "landscape robbery". There are also tensions within the municipalities, since property owners are tempting per wind turbine due to rather lucrative financial incentives of 40,000 to 150,000 euros per year. Jürgen Scherb from the Citizens' Initiative reports on such disputes, while Fritz Schwarz from the Nature Conservation Association emphasizes that wind power only makes sense if forest areas are spared.

A respectful dialogue is necessary

Königsecker demands a respectful dialogue of everyone involved and the serious listening to the fears of the population. His criticism is also directed against the disrespectful use of critical voices in the previous debate. It is crucial for him that small energy generators are included in the energy transition in order to promote a sense of community and to keep an eye on the common good.

Especially at a time when climate protection is becoming increasingly important, a reasonable handling of resources is required. Königsecker advocates that the focus should be more on already sealed areas such as motorways or industrial areas instead of again claiming valuable areas in nature.

Overall, it can be seen that the situation in the Mühlviertel is critical. The protection of nature and the necessary promotion of renewable energies must be reconciled. Interested parties can find more information on the connections between nature conservation and energy generation on the website of the BMU .