Abstract
Abstract. GIS-based approaches for the optimal expansion of renewable energies are characterized by a strong dominance of engineering-oriented perspectives. It is acknowledged that combining techno-economic site analysis with social aspects can be beneficial for acceptance. However, this strategy's success is limited if essential theoretical perceptions obtained from social and economic sciences are neglected, degrading social parameters to simplified elements of GIS-based approaches. The study discusses the fundamental criticism of a techno-economic oriented and target-deterministic energy planning by GIS. Proceeding from this, more complex approaches to the integration of social perspectives into GIS-planning tools are exemplified.
Highlights
Due to their low energy density, renewable energies are rather area intensive, requiring close arrangements with different demands for space
The newly developed Geographic Information Systems (GIS) planning tool aims to overcome the shortcomings of present ones by detaching from the technology-orientated perspective and focusing on the social and environmental suitability of sites for renewable energies, while integrating spatial dynamics
The predominant features are Burdened Space, which forms a line through the region, and Touristic Space, which infiltrates the region in patches
Summary
Due to their low energy density, renewable energies are rather area intensive, requiring close arrangements with different demands for space (e.g., nature protection, recreational areas, settlements). From the beginning of the Energy Transition until today, GIS-related approaches have mainly been focused on an engineering point of view, neglecting social and environmental aspects (Upreti and Horst, 2004; Devine-Wright, 2005; Ellis et al, 2007; Zoellner et al, 2008; Aitken, 2010). This predominantly technology-based line of action may hamper social acceptance of renewable energies. The GIS-tool should have the potential to quickly change economic, ecological and social parameters in order to map and interpret the spatial dynamics of renewable energy site planning
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