Czech Usti Region opposes wind farm area within sight of Mount Rip

The Usti Region opposes the designation of an area for wind turbine construction within sight of Mount Rip. Regarding the proposed acceleration zone in Krystofovy Hamry in the Chomutov area, the region points out that it is in an area important for ensuring Czechia's air defence. Conversely, the regional authority considers the area for renewable energy sources near Podborany in the Louny area to be non-conflicting. Regional councillors today approved a list of comments on changes to the Czech Republic's spatial development plan. The Ministry of Regional Development's proposal includes two acceleration areas in the Usti Region, where simpler permitting of wind turbines is envisaged.

The Usti Region is submitting a comment on the Novy Dvur acceleration area, which is mainly in the Central Bohemian Region but also extends into the protective zone of the Rip national cultural monument. "We do not consider it a good idea for the surroundings of such an important landmark of the Roudnice area and a national monument to be built up with wind turbine towers," Usti Region councillor Tomas Kirbs (ANO) told journalists.

In the case of Krystofovy Hamry, the region points out that the area lies outside the necessary areas designated by the government and, above all, is in the area of interest of the Hrusovany radar, one of the backbone facilities of the Czech Republic's air defence and part of NATO's integrated air and missile defence system.

"Our arguments in the case of Mount Rip, which is regarded as the symbolic centre of the republic, are strong. It would fundamentally alter the landscape character beneath Rip and affect tourism. In the case of the Chomutov area, it is about security," Kirbs said.

According to the regional authority, the area around Podborany is a non-conflicting location for renewable energy sources.

The region was surprised not to find in the maps of planned acceleration zones the areas left after lignite mining, which it had offered to the ministry for the construction of photovoltaic power plants. The state has been addressing the policy for the management and subsequent use of reclaimed areas since 2017. "The proposal submitted by the ministry may not be final. If fundamental comments are raised, it will address them," said Usti Region Governor Richard Brabec (ANO), who is convinced that this will be the case. The region is ready to cooperate with municipalities.

A public hearing with municipalities will be held in Prague on 15 May, and comments can be submitted until and including 1 June.