The consideration of renewable energy sources in spatial planning in selected EU countries: legal and institutional perspectives

Abstract

This article examines how renewable energy sources (RES) are included into spatial planning systems in Austria, Germany, Greece, Spain and Poland. It identifies key legal and institutional mechanisms linking RES deployment with planning processes across national, regional and local levels. The aim is to identify key approaches to addressing renewable energy challenges at various spatial planning levels. The analysis highlights both regulatory and strategic approaches, showing how legal frameworks shape zoning, development criteria and procedural requirements. Despite these tools, significant challenges persist, particularly the misalignment between national objectives and local implementation, which often results in tensions or resistance at the municipal level. Terminological and procedural inconsistencies further complicate governance coherence. Across the countries examined, several common trends were identified, including challenges in integrating strategic and legal approaches, the inadequacy of traditional spatial planning instruments, and the fragmentation of public authority competences – all of which significantly undermine the effectiveness of individual planning instruments.