Sustainable management of wind resources in coastal areas in Estonia

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 km 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 lowest share of areas with limitations for use of wind energy in the coastal zone can be found in Saaremaa and North-East Estonia. There is 37 000 ha (12.7%) of the area suitable for building wind turbines in Saaremaa and 19 000 ha (9.5%) in Laane-Virumaa. The lowest share of suitable areas are in Harjumaa 5.4% (9 000 ha) due to extensive naturally unsuitable or settlement areas, and in Hiiumaa (6.1% or 6 000 ha) and South-West Estonia (5.9% or 18 000 ha) where large wetlands or forests are the limiting factors.