Abstract
This study presents an updated overview of the efforts made by 10 selected European Member States (MSs) to implement the amended Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) concerning mapping for renewables. Specifically, it examines Art. 15b, which mandates MSs to conduct a coordinated spatial mapping for renewable energy (RE) areas by 21st May 2025, necessary to meet their country-specific renewable energy targets under National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs), contributing to the overall EU binding RE target for 2030. It also gives a glimpse into Art. 15c, which requires the designation of RAAs within these mapped areas by 21st February 2026, if the MSs are proceeding on time. The report presents the findings of 10 MSs: Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, Portugal, and Spain.
The analysis indicates that RED III serves as a valuable, overarching framework for long-term RE expansion pathways, particularly in times of political instability, as MSs are increasingly experiencing throughout the EU. Its stipulations provide a firm underpinning for national climate targets and ensure consistency and planning security even amidst changes in national politics.
This follow-up study reveals that RED III has acted as a significant political stimulus for spatial mapping in most of the analysed MSs. Compared to the initial stock-take in our previous report, Overview of Renewable Energy Spatial Planning and Designation of Acceleration Areas in Selected EU Member States (Oeko-Institut 2024), mapping processes have been initiated in almost all countries, or RED III stipulations have been integrated into existing spatial planning processes for RE areas. It seems in countries that had not previously implemented similar processes, RED III resonated particularly strongly and created a firm incentive to implement coordinating spatial mapping and planning. In contrast, countries with existing processes, such as Germany, France, and Italy, experience a more complex implementation of the RED III, often slower due to difficulties in integrating with existing processes and laws.
Midway through the RED III timeline, it is clear that fast-tracking permitting alone cannot deliver the intended acceleration. Beyond environmental assessments, structural weaknesses, grid access, fragmented planning, and data gaps remain key barriers. Effective acceleration requires addressing these systemic issues while safeguarding nature. Drawing on interviews with over 50 country experts, this report highlights the approaches most relevant for RED III implementation.
Key overarching recommendations include:
• Ensure sustained political commitment to RED III implementation
• Ensure a robust and meaningful assessments of RAAs
• Increase data availability, accessibility, and quality
• Integrate further relevant data into existing mapping tools
• Strengthen dialogue between relevant stakeholders
• Strengthen country-specific administrative capacities
• Prioritize RE development on low-conflict areas
• Maintain the momentum