Strategic advice in permit processes - with nature in focus

Close-up of a birch tree blowing in the wind - used in article about Ecogain's expert support in bird and bat inventory in wind energy project permitting processes.

Wind energy developments require careful trade-offs between energy production and protection of nature values. To make this trade-off, early advice and feasibility studies are key to achieving an effective permitting process. Particular consideration needs to be given to bats and birds, which are often affected by the location and operation of wind turbines.

Conducting cost-effective feasibility studies early on is crucial to avoid costly mistakes later in the process. Without adequate data, projects can risk delays or, in the worst case, be stopped altogether - costing both time and money. That's why strategic advice and expert support on nature conservation issues is an important part of successful wind power development.

- Everyone benefits from knowing early on what challenges a project faces. That's why I always recommend conducting feasibility studies early in the process," says Anders Borgehed, Business Manager Team Fågel at Ecogain.

Bats and birds - key groups in the wind energy permitting process

All bat species in Sweden are protected under the Species Protection Ordinance. Their breeding and roosting sites must not be disturbed or destroyed. In wind power projects, the species protection of bats is usually required to be thoroughly investigated.

In the construction of wind power, several bird species are specifically identified in the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency's wind selection reports. These species need to be inventoried and any impact investigated, as the presence of these species can be decisive for whether a project is granted a permit or not.

Complex issues require qualified advice

The questions are many and the regulations on species protection are complex. That's why more and more developers are choosing to seek advice early in the process.

Ecogain's specialists provide guidance on risks, opportunities and ways forward - combining ecological expertise with an understanding of environmental law. Our experts are well versed in the regulatory framework of the permitting authorities and help wind energy companies navigate the right path.

We offer rapid feasibility studies with strategic advice and comprehensive inventories of bats, golden and white-tailed eagles, birds of prey, loons, wetland birds, and breeding and migratory birds.

Through accurate field analysis and reporting, we create a decision basis that meets the requirements of the authorities and facilitates the licensing process.

One of Sweden's most experienced environmental consultants in wind power

Green Power Sweden, formerly Svensk Vindenergi, compiles annual statistics on permit processes for wind power in Sweden. Ecogain has analyzed the statistics and compiled data on our own ongoing and completed projects.

We have been involved in enabling a large part of Sweden's expansion of wind power. With our expertise in nature values, permitting and ecological issues, we have been involved in 71 project areas, comprising a total of 2,799 wind turbines and a potential annual production of 26.46 TWh.

To put that in perspective, wind power in Sweden produced 40.4 TWh in 2024. In the same year, there were 5547 wind turbinesin the country, according to the Swedish Energy Agency's statistical database. This makes us one of Sweden's most experienced environmental consultants in wind power - with a documented ability to combine progress, quality and consideration for nature.

Holistic, experienced and driven

With over 20 years of experience in nature value assessments, environmental law and ecological issues, Ecogain has built a strong reputation. Our clients are some of the country's largest players in renewable energy, and we are involved in almost all major wind power projects.

- It's not just about complying with laws and regulations, but about building trust between developers, authorities and society. This requires a holistic approach, a long-term perspective and real knowledge of nature," says Anneli Alersjö, COSO at Ecogain.

Want to know more about how Ecogain can support you in wind energy development permitting processes?

 Examples of our services in wind power establishment:

Contact me for a first conversation! Anneli Alersjö anneli.alersjo@ecogain.se +46 10-405 90 46