“uåX˜äŠÊ˜·³Ç

Wind potential in Lower Saxony is at least 26,000 MW. The second phase of a study of Lower Saxony by the German wind energy institute DEWI of Wilhelmshaven reports that 14,000-17,000 MW of wind energy could be installed in eleven inland districts. The first phase, completed in 1993, revealed that in the area covered by the ten coastal districts and towns, 12,000-14,800 MW of wind power could be installed using 500 kW and 1 MW turbines, respectively. Lower Saxony Environment Minister Monika Griefahn officially presented the most recent study to the public and stressed: "The government's aim to have at least 100 MW of wind installed by the year 2000 has been brought a step closer through the completion of the study. The potential of suitable sites is so large that conflicts over nature protection or other land uses need not occur." In the study, DEWI has weeded out all the "taboo zones" such as protected areas, woodland, military sites, high voltage cables and so on. It also only records sites of ten hectares or more. Locations for single turbines are not registered. The final calculation is therefore a realistic estimate of theoretical wind potential. The aim of the study is to provide parishes and districts with a practical planning aid towards earmarking sites for wind stations and single wind turbines.