Government sharply reduces fast-track zones for wind farms

The Czech government has approved a much smaller network of fast-track zones for renewable energy projects than originally planned. The area designated for accelerated permitting of wind farms was reduced to about 300 square kilometres, roughly 11 percent of the area proposed by the previous government. Industry Minister Karel Havlíček (ANO) said the move balances local concerns with the need to meet Czech commitments to the European Union. Environmental groups criticised the decision, arguing it will slow the development of renewable energy, while the renewable energy industry said faster permitting is needed both inside and outside the designated zones.