Objections to photovoltaics – solar expansion or environmental protection? Nature conservation organizations in a dilemma – News


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In the midst of the energy crisis, some organizations are willing to make cutbacks when it comes to protecting the environment. So far they have been reluctant to give up.

Photovoltaic systems in the Alps should be approved more easily, according to the responsible parliamentary commission. These could one day supply a lot of electricity in winter. Two such systems are currently planned in Valais.

In the future, a simple building permit should suffice. It should no longer be necessary to check how environmentally compatible a project is. SP National Councilor Ursula Schneider Schüttel goes too far. “My conviction is: Promote renewable energy, but not at any price,” said the President of the nature conservation organization Pro Natura. The procedures must be left as they are today.

Girod sees enormous potential

The Green National Councilor Bastien Girod, who is generally in favor of the proposal, sees it differently: “Basically, the direction is right,” says Girod. It is important that progress is made with solar power in the Alpine regions, but especially with buildings.

“Here we have enormous potential that we have not fully exploited in the past.” But Girod also has conditions: For example, he still wants an obligation for an environmental impact assessment.

The Council of States on Thursday will show whether the energy transition or environmental and landscape protection will be given preference.

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