FFH compatibility study at GEOFReE
Compatibility assessment with the Fauna, Flora and Habitats (FFH) Directive
Example: Grid connection of the wind energy demonstration field GEOFReE
The NATURA 2000 network and the Fauna, Flora and Habitats Directive aim to ban the destruction of highly valuable habitats and species. Not only must the present-day condition of these areas not be worsened, but it should also be improved according to its protection aims. Adverse effects due to a changed or intensified usage are not permitted. New plans or measures in the protected area or in the surrounding of this area have to be formally evaluated before realisation. An examination of the possible effects of the project on neighbouring NATURA 2000 areas is always required when actions could result in negative impacts on these areas, their habitats, species or protection objectives.
The NATURA 2000 assessment examines possible functional relationships between the planned cable route and the traversed protected areas in order to forecast possible disturbances due to the construction or the operation of the grid connection. The interactions between the grid connection and traversed NATURA 2000 areas can be conceived in different ways. For example changes in the water body could spread and lead to impairments in bordering regions. Therefore it is necessary to evaluate whether there is a risk of shifting currents and disturbing ecological functions in protected areas. Other examples are bird habitats, since these are larger than other animals’ habitats. In this case the risk of disturbance for bird species of protected areas due to the construction of the grid connection must be evaluated. More generally, an overall estimate of the potential vulnerability must be carried out.