Reaching the Heights: A Desk Study on Exploring Opportunities and Challenges for Lithuania’s Tallest Wind Turbine

Abstract

This study investigates the opportunities and challenges of installing Vestas’ V172-7.2 MW wind turbine, standing at 199 m, in Lithuania. As part of the country’s commitment to sustainable growth and the European Union’s goal of achieving a Net Zero Carbon economy by 2050, Lithuania aims to achieve self-sufficiency in energy production, focusing on wind energy projects. The research addresses two key questions: the optimal geographical location for the wind turbine installation and the anticipated outcomes and impacts of the project. Hence, the turbine’s technical requirements are researched to offer a clear picture of the manufacturer’s minimal standards, such as cleared site radius, distance to residence, highways, and wind speed range. Following that, Lithuanian regulatory standards are investigated for turbine installation in terms of residential zones, protected natural regions, and locations where any construction is controlled or prohibited. Therefore, the research’s data is gathered using a multi-method that relies on secondary data techniques. The deductive approach served as a structured framework for results, leveraging theories to help the identification process of suitable wind turbine locations. Delimitations include a focus on the specific features of the turbine, predefined environmental elements, and a holistic view of potential locations.