| | JANUARY - FEBRUARY 20268IN MY OPINIONWind energy in the Czech Republic is on the verge of a significant transformation. After years of stagnation caused by regulatory barriers, investor uncertainty and a lack of political support, the situation is beginning to change. As someone who has been involved in wind project development for many years, I see an interesting window of opportunity ­ both in terms of legislation and the real potential for new installations. Czechia have legislated for CfD auctions. Government is planning to support up to 1,5 GW during next five years.The Regulatory Environment is Moving in the Right DirectionOne of the key factors currently supporting wind energy in the Czech Republic is the gradual simplification and acceleration of the permitting process. In recent years, the country has been working to align itself with European standards, especially through the implementation of legislation designed to accelerate the construction of renewable energy sources and reduce the administrative burden.Public Participation as a CornerstoneAs everywhere else, it must be considered that wind energy development may arouse resistance among residents. Practical experience is clear: wind projects have a higher chance of success where local stakeholders and communities are involved in the process from the very beginning. Residents want to know what the project will bring to their community, how it will affect the landscape, what the impacts will be and what benefits it may offer. And they have every right to ask.When participation is done well, the dynamics of the entire dynamic of a project. A potential conflict becomes partnership. Concerns turn into constructive dialogue. And the investor's project becomes a community project.In practice, this means:Open dialogue from day one ­ no finalized plans presented only when everything has already been decided.WIND ENERGY BOOM IN CZECHIA: A WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITYBy Stanislav Cetkovsky, Director of Wind Energy Development & Operations, CEZ
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