Onshore wind energy in Northern European forests: Reviewing the risks

Abstract

Based on an extensive synthesis of more than 100 peer-reviewed studies, this study explores the risks associated with onshore wind energy in forested areas in Northern Europe. The analyses are performed using a risk management model to conduct a comprehensive literature review on onshore wind energy in such areas. Using an innovative division of a wind turbine׳s lifecycle and risk categories, this study provides a complete overview of the present academic literature on the risks associated with wind energy in forested areas. Consequently, this study contributes to the wind industry in terms of the risks to be considered for onshore wind projects in forested areas in Northern Europe and to inform the debate in the energy studies literature concerning the lacks and explanations regarding the risks currently covered by the academic literature. The comparative analysis performed in this research reveals trends in the literature and their implications for time and phases of research. The scholarship contribution to the research topic have been compared to geographic specificities and country profiles for each of targeted countries in Northern Europe, resulting in a complete overview and introduction of the risks associated with onshore wind energy in forested areas in Northern Europe.