The construction of new wind turbines can arouse strong opposition from those living nearby. This may be due to the fact that the turbines disturb the environment through noise, shadows or flashing lights at night. One way to increase acceptance is to allow the local community to share in the revenues from wind farms.
In the government's proposal, which is now being sent for consultation, those who live at a distance corresponding to a maximum of eight times the height of the wind turbine will be entitled to compensation. How much you can get depends, among other things, on how close you live. The compensation will be tax-free if it concerns a private residence.
Offices, shops, hotels or restaurants cannot receive any compensation.
The requirement to share revenue only applies to new plants and existing plants that receive a new permit. They will be required to share the revenue from the plant with local residents.
If there are many people living around a wind farm, the total amount that the company has to pay out would be very large. In order not to risk the entire profitability, a ceiling is set that a maximum of two percent of the revenue from electricity production can go towards compensation.
A previous investigation suggested that it would be possible to redeem the property if new wind turbines were built next door, but no such proposal is included in the government's memorandum.
The new law is proposed to enter into force on July 1, 2026.
