Windkracht 13

The so-called 20/20/20 goals of the European Union are key measures in the context of the sustainable development policy of the EU. The highest potential for emission reductions is present in the electricity sector. Hitherto, the Flemish government mainly invested in photovoltaic panels and large (mainly offshore) wind turbines. However, studies prove that the use of small and medium size wind turbines may claim a part. Despite their potential, though, the market for wind turbines minus 100 kW is not yet developed. ‘Windkracht 13’ is a demonstration and dissemination project in the frame of the New Industrial Policy of the Flemish government and aims at opening the market for small and medium size wind turbines (SMWT) in Flanders. The project studies the current barriers by performing a focused LESTS (Legal, Economic, Spatial, Technical, Social) analysis. Based on this pentagonal mapping, recommendations are made for lowering the thresholds to install SMWT in Flanders. Starting from realistic and pragmatic criteria, new locations are explored. The (re)use of masts and towers is a study focus, as well as the potential of rural and industrial environments. Farm sites and business parks often have a high wind energy profile, combined with specific (renewable) energy requirements, thus offering perspective for SMWT. Active participation of the project stakeholders in the users committee is encouraged, leading to implementation of SMWT at strategic locations. These demonstrations are necessary to increase the social acceptance of SMWT. The project results and recommendations are bundled in a best practices manual for a successful implementation of SMWT in Flanders.