The Federal Cabinet today adopted compensation regulations for interventions in nature. The Offsetting Ordinance, presented by Federal Environment Minister Peter Altmaier, contains nature conservation provisions that apply in case of adverse effects on nature and landscape. Such effects can be caused, for example, by wind turbines, power lines or roads. Minister Altmaier commented: "The ordinance shows that the Energiewende, the transformation of the energy system, and nature conservation are not conflicting goals. The provisions ensure that both the natural balance and landscape appearance are preserved without slowing down the transformation." The ordinance harmonises the existing provisions of the individual Länder.
The Energiewende poses substantial challenges, in particular in terms of nature conservation. The further expansion of renewable energies and of the electricity grid cannot be achieved without interventions in nature and landscape. The goal of the new provisions, applicable nationwide, is to ensure adequate compensation for these interventions. To protect the interests of agriculture, soils especially suited for agricultural use are to be preserved and the competent agricultural and forestry authorities are to be involved in decision-making processes. Offsetting measures like unsealing soil and relinking habitats are to be rewarded.
In principle, interventions in nature should be avoided wherever possible. If this is not feasible, the value of nature is determined. In case of significant adverse effects on a biotope or other natural assets – such as animals, plants, soil, water, air and climate – these effects must be compensated for. The level of compensation is determined on the basis of a biotope valuation procedure. If a project affects species threatened with extinction, or nature conservation or bird protection areas, additional offsetting measures are required.
Special provisions apply for so-called interventions in landscape appearance. In the future any towers higher than 20 metres will require monetary substitution. The amount to be paid is dependent on the height and location of the installation. For example, developers will be charged less for wind turbines or transmission towers built in a normal agricultural landscape than for installations built in landscapes of European significance. For an installation that is 200 metres high, the monetary substitution to be paid will therefore range between 20,000 and 160,000 euros.