From Plans to Reality: Slovaks Learning from Austria’s Wind Energy Experience
Author: Lucia Smatana Palmanová, SAPI – Slovak Association of Sustainable Energy
As part of the EUKI project From Plans to Reality: Renewable Chance for Future, SAPI – Slovak Association for Sustainable Energy, organised a professional study excursion in early November to the Weinviertel region of Lower Austria, focusing on wind energy. Participants visited two municipalities, Spannberg and Hohenruppersdorf, where wind farms have been an established as part of the landscape for more than two decades.
The programme included guided tours of the wind parks, complemented by informal discussions with operators on topics such as social acceptance, environmental impacts, and benefits for local communities. A highlight of the visit was the official reception at the Spannberg municipal office by Mayor Sandro Kaufmann, followed by a series of expert lectures addressing EIA procedures and public acceptance. The aim was to give participants first-hand insight into how local communities perceive wind farms and the role they play in regional development.
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Experiencing wind power first-hand
The one-day event attracted representatives from national authorities, such as the Ministry of Economy and the Slovak Environmental Inspectorate, and nation-wide mass media. The agenda offered a rare opportunity to step inside wind turbines using V-162 technology, stand directly beneath the structures, and assess operational noise levels.
Participants compared older turbine models, around 150 meters in total height including blades, with the newest installations in Spannberg, operated by W.E.B. Energy, which reach up to 250 metres. Surprisingly, the visual difference was minimal, dispelling concerns that larger turbines would significantly disrupt the landscape.
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Transparent communication is the key
Within the programme we had the opportunity to meet with the Mayor of Spannberg, Sandro Kaufmann who willingly answered all questions and explained why social acceptance of wind energy is so high in Spannberg. According to his words, “The key is clear: An open communication with citizens already in the early phases of projects, as well as visible financial benefits felt by all residents of the municipality.” The mayor also presented specific examples of how Spannberg uses its financial revenues, such as subsidies for small-scale renewable installations.
“The key is clear: An open communication with citizens already in the early phases of projects, as well as visible financial benefits felt by all residents of the municipality.”
Mayor of Spannberg, Sandro Kaufmann
The lectures of invited speakers further enriched the agenda. Bohumil Frantál from the Czech Academy of Sciences explained: “It turns out that the perception of negative impacts decreases after wind farms are launched, and acceptance by residents grows. This is, of course, also linked to the financial benefits these projects bring directly to municipalities and their inhabitants.” Environmental consultant Vladimír Kočvara addressed EIA procedures, while Martin Jaksch-Fliegenschnee from IG Windkraft explained how Austria balances its energy supply during periods of low wind.
“It turns out that the perception of negative impacts decreases after wind farms are launched, and acceptance by residents grows. This is, of course, also linked to the financial benefits these projects bring directly to municipalities and their inhabitants.”
Bohumil Frantál, Czech Academy of Sciences
Economic benefits for local residents
Spannberg has an agreement with wind farm operators that brings the municipality approximately €750,000 annually, nearly half of its budget. These funds are used not only for regular expenses but also for direct community support. A renewable energy fund provides subsidies for installing rooftop photovoltaics, while residents benefit from a special electricity tariff below market price.
Dispelling myths and building confidence
Slovak participants confirmed that myths and misinformation about wind energy remain widespread in the country. Franz Blochberger of the Austrian family company BLOCH3, which has developed wind parks in Austria, Czechia, Bulgaria, and Romania, explained: “We also encountered concerns from residents when preparing projects. But if you communicate with the municipality, and it understands the benefits of wind energy for the community and the region, plus national politicians explain why we need green sources, you can ease those concerns.”
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Direct exposure to operating wind farms often convinces even sceptics that well-designed projects do not harm the landscape or environment. On the contrary, a local referendum in Spannberg confirmed that residents want wind parks. The growing population further shows that turbines bring benefits, making even a small border municipality attractive for young people.