SEA Guidance Annex 21

The role of spatial planning frameworks for renewable energy planning

Annex 21 outlines the critical role spatial planning frameworks play in shaping renewable energy development. Through site identification, zoning regulations, integration with regional plans, and support for community engagement, these frameworks provide the structure needed to deploy renewable energy responsibly and efficiently. They also enable cross-border coordination, optimize infrastructure placement, and help mitigate land-use conflicts.

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What’s Inside This Annex

Role of spatial planning frameworks

Spatial planning frameworks play a critical role in shaping the deployment of renewable energy infrastructure and guiding the integration of renewable energy policies into broader land use and development strategies.

Identifying suitable sites

Spatial planning helps identify suitable locations for renewable energy projects, taking into account factors such as resource availability, land (or marine) use compatibility, environmental constraints, and community preferences.

Zoning & land allocation

Spatial planning involves zoning regulations and land allocation policies that designate areas for different land uses, including renewable energy development, and provide clarity and certainty for developers while minimizing conflicts with other land uses.

Integration & participation

Spatial planning frameworks are often integrated with regional development plans, economic strategies, and infrastructure investment priorities. Spatial planning frameworks may provide opportunities for community engagement and participation through public consultations, stakeholder workshops, and participatory mapping exercises.

Infrastructure & cross-border cooperation

Spatial planning facilitates the siting of renewable energy infrastructure to ensure efficient grid integration and energy distribution. Spatial planning frameworks enable cross-border cooperation and coordination on renewable energy development in transboundary regions.

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SEA Guidance Annex 21