Achieving energy transition through spatial planning - A case of onshore wind energy planning procedures optimization in China

Wind energy is expected to be an effective solution to mitigate climate change and environmental pollution with broad resource distribution, decarbonization characteristics, and mature technologies. However, the rapid expansion of wind energy may also bring about new issues in space allocation and land use conflicts. Integration research of wind energy into spatial planning framework is imperative. Based on the dynamic change theories and conventional energy planning process, this paper proposed a planning framework with four main phases: 1) preparation, analysis, and orientation; 2) model design; 3) optimization and systematization; 4) implementation and supervision. Under the new framework, the connotation of wind energy planning and existing issues have been re-examined, and the planning procedures have been reorganized to correspond to the Chinese spatial planning system and energy development targets. Principles, priority, and systematization measures were discussed to optimize the planning system from the organizational perspective. The newly constructed framework connected the wind energy development plan and spatial planning into well-organized procedures with definite principles, targets, implementation guidelines, and supervision mechanisms at each planning level. The outcome of the research can be utilized as a guideline strategically positioning of planning goals and content.