Author(s)

A. Kull & A. Laas

Abstract

Sustainable management of wind resources in coastal areas in Estonia A. Kull & A. Laas University of Tartu, Institute of Geography, Estonia Abstract Rapid development of renewable energy in many European countries has brought about a certain enlivening also in the energy sector in Estonia. Estonia is rich in such renewable energy sources like wood, peat and wind. Wind energy potential is very high (up to 7 TWh) due to its geographical location. This potential could be efficiently used particularly on the western coastline and islands. Wider use of renewable energy sources would allow significant cutting of GHG emissions. However, acceptable sites for use of wind energy are only those that are economically profitable (i.e., good wind conditions) and do not conflict with environmental and public interests. In the Estonian coastal regions (20 krn wide zone along the 3800 km long coastline) there is 114 000 ha (7.9% of total area) open fields that are fully suitable for harnessing wind energy. The

Keywords