By Kate Abnett

BRUSSELS, (Reuters) – A draft document states that the European Union executive is seeking to accelerate its green transition and reduce dependence on Russian fuels. It wants some renewable energy projects to be granted permits in less than a year.

Next week, Brussels will unveil a set of measures that aim to reduce the EU’s dependence on Russia. These include increasing renewable energy, reducing energy consumption, and increasing imports from other countries.

According to the European Commission’s draft legislative proposal, this will include rules for countries that would require them to define “go-to zones” on land or water suitable for renewable energy. These areas should be designated where they have the least environmental impact.

The permit-granting process to new projects in areas where renewables are go-to shall not exceed one-year,” it stated. It also noted that the period could be extended for three months under “extraordinary circumstances”.

This compares to the EU’s two-year limit for allowing such schemes. It can be extended an additional year. The draft stated that projects outside the go-to regions would adhere to this timeframe.

Red tape, opposition from local governments, or concerns regarding endangered species can cause delays in renewable projects. This raises concerns that the bloc may not be able to grow wind and solar energy quickly enough to address climate change.

The Hellenic Wind Energy Association stated that eight years in Greece is the typical time frame for wind energy projects approval.

The document stated that renewable energy sources were crucial for fighting climate change, reducing energy prices, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and ensuring the Union’s supply security.

The “overriding Public Interest” would allow for an easier assessment of the permit and construction of renewable energy projects. According to the draft, EU citizens still had the right of participation in projects decisions.

Avoiding protected areas or routes for bird migration would not be a priority. Prioritise areas built like roads, roofs, rails, and other industrial areas.

However, an overall area would need to be assessed, while individual projects wouldn’t require one unless they were likely to have a significant impact on the environment of another EU country.

A smaller project with less than 150kW of capacity would be subject to a six month permit process. Nine months if safety and impact on power grid are concerns.

For plants that are dependent on biomass energy for their electricity, the speedier permits rules will not be applicable.