15,000 applications in Germany waiting for permit to transport wind turbines

Germany’s wind power expansion is facing significant delays due to a backlog of more than 15,000 applications for permits to transport heavy wind turbine components. Companies in the wind energy sector have reported that the delays in securing permits are costing them thousands of euros per day and have the potential to cost the industry an extra €115 million by the end of the year.

Transport permits are necessary to move heavy loads, such as wind turbine components, over bridges and highways. This often requires dismantling structures, road signs, and police escorts, and some transports can only take place at night. The costs associated with obtaining permits have risen substantially, with application fees jumping from €100 to more than €1,000. In addition to the increased costs, the rigid nature of the permits means that multiple applications are often required to cover different eventualities.

The delays in obtaining transport permits pose a significant challenge to Germany’s efforts to expand its wind power capacity. The country aims to generate 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, with a significant portion coming from onshore wind power. However, the permitting backlog threatens to hinder the achievement of this goal.

One of the key issues contributing to the delays is the lack of a single law regulating heavy load transport, leading to different regulations in each federal state. Additionally, outdated software and administrative guidelines have further complicated the permitting process.

To address these challenges, some experts are calling for the implementation of a geo-information system that can streamline the permitting process and provide standardized procedures for both industry and authorities. Until such measures are put in place, wind energy companies in Germany may continue to face costly delays in their projects.

In the meantime, the wind power industry is looking to countries like Denmark, which have implemented more efficient permitting processes and have seen significant improvements in the speed and cost-effectiveness of transporting wind turbine components.

Elevate your business with QU4TRO PRO!

Gain access to comprehensive analysis, in-depth reports and market trends.

Interested in learning more?

Sign up for Top Insights Today

Top Insights Today delivers the latest insights straight to your inbox.

You will get daily industry insights on

Oil & Gas, Rare Earths & Commodities, Mining & Metals, EVs & Battery Technology, ESG & Renewable Energy, AI & Semiconductors, Aerospace & Defense, Sanctions & Regulation, Business & Politics.

By clicking subscribe you agree to our privacy and cookie policy and terms and conditions of use.

Read more insights

Iron ore futures in Singapore decline amidst concerns over Chinese demand

Iron ore futures in Singapore experienced a sharp decline, continuing a period of volatile trading driven by growing concerns about Chinese demand. Concurrently, base metals also saw a decrease in prices. The fluctuation in iron ore prices reflects uncertainty among investors regarding future…

European aluminum makers ask the EU to expand bans on Russian imports

European Aluminium, a leading industry group representing companies in the aluminum sector, has called for the European Union (EU) to implement broader import bans on Russian aluminum. The current proposal, put forward by the European Commission as part of the 12th package of…

US escalates pressure on Russia with executive order targeting financial institutions

U.S. President Joe Biden has taken a significant step in escalating pressure on Russia by signing an executive order that targets financial institutions aiding Russia in evading sanctions. The executive order empowers Washington to impose penalties on foreign financial institutions…

Stay informed

error: Content is protected !!