New regulations on building solar panels and wind parks are more restrictive than the previous ones that came into force in 2008.
The regulation published by the Environment and Energy Ministry also limits the total area solar panels can cover: It cannot exceed 1.5% of each regional unit’s (the old prefectures) area. For wind parks, the limit remains at 4% of the area of each municipality; and an altitude restriction, no higher than 1,200 meters, is added.
Restrictions continue on areas protected by environmental treaties and regulations, with very few exceptions contingent on the average wind speed and local needs; to the already included ancient monuments, the ministry adds newer ones (post-1830) as protected.
Beaches and recreation spaces are also protected, as are small islands, with limited exemptions granted case by case.
