Location procedure as a barrier to offshore wind energy development by the example of Polish and Chinese legal order

Abstract

Offshore wind energy allows the realization of the two most important aims of the state, i.e. ensuring energy security and reducing negative environmental impact by the fuel and energy sectors. Generating electricity from offshore wind farms is a consequence of the obligation to achieve climate neutrality targets, which are subject to a global consensus. Simultaneously, there are still many negative factors slowing its development. The lack of comprehensive legal regulation in this area and the overly complex location procedures are legal problems which, if left unsolved, will make these investments impossible. The aim of this article is to compare Chinese and Polish offshore location procedures while indicating main barriers and postulates of changes considered as necessary to realise global climate neutrality target.