Abstract
This paper examines how France, Italy, and Spain integrate biodiversity conservation into renewable energy development under the European Green Deal (EGD). Based on a qualitative analysis of 46 national policy documents, we provide a comparative assessment of how these countries address the synergies and trade-offs between individual renewable energy sources (RES) and biodiversity, as well as the planned or implemented measures to manage them. Our results reveal that, while national policies address several links between RES and biodiversity, critical areas still require further management. Specific attention should be given to mitigating the impacts of changes in land use associated with bioenergy production and the installation of onshore wind and solar infrastructure on biodiversity and ecosystems. Careful consideration is also needed regarding the environmental impacts caused by marine and geothermal energy installations, as well as by hydropower development on rivers and floodplains. Sound spatial planning, ecosystem-based management, and integrated maritime policy are essential for reconciling renewable energy development with the conservation of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Although national policies generally align with EGD provisions, strengthening environmental monitoring, and addressing indirect, cumulative, and long-term ecological impacts, particularly on habitats and species, remains a priority. Overall, our study emphasises the need for countries to adopt a holistic approach to renewable energy planning that systematically incorporates biodiversity considerations into energy and cross-sectoral policies.