Europe’s Renewable Energy Expansion Risks Nature, Report Finds

A new report released today indicates that the rapid expansion of renewable energy across Europe is proceeding at a pace that could inadvertently harm biodiversity, despite opportunities to integrate conservation efforts.

The report, from BirdLife Europe, highlights a critical window of opportunity – the next year – for Member States to align renewable energy goals with nature conservation and restoration plans, with deadlines approaching for designating Renewable Acceleration Areas (RAAs) by February 2026 and submitting Nature Restoration Plans (NRPs) by September 2026. The European Commission currently estimates the EU is on track to reduce emissions by 54% by 2030, nearing its 55% legally binding target, but none of the measurable sub-targets within the EU Biodiversity Strategy are currently being met. This comes at a time when energy independence is a growing concern for many European nations.

According to András Takács, Energy Policy Officer at Birdlife Europe & Central Asia, “The report’s central message is clear: renewable expansion and biodiversity conservation and restoration don’t need to compete.” The report argues that delays in renewable rollout are not due to environmental regulations, but rather stem from administrative weaknesses, grid limitations, and a lack of coordination. Some Member States are already exploring integrating biodiversity into their renewable energy policies, such as using ecological criteria in energy auctions to favor projects with net-biodiversity benefits – a concept meaning leaving nature in a better state than before a project begins – but price often remains the primary deciding factor. You can learn more about the EU’s biodiversity strategy here.

BirdLife’s report analyzes progress and challenges across eight Member States, offering practical guidance for accelerating the energy transition while protecting and restoring nature, emphasizing the need for integrated planning, investment in public authorities, transparent assessments, and public participation. Failure to align climate and biodiversity planning could undermine public trust and slow progress towards both goals. For more information on sustainable energy solutions, visit the International Renewable Energy Agency.

Officials state that governments must act quickly to lay the groundwork for these changes, with civil society ready to provide support and drive the necessary transformation.