The strategic environmental impact assessment of electric wind energy plants: Case study ‘Bavanište’ (Serbia)

This study presents a methodology of strategic environmental impact assessment that was applied in the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the Urban Plan for wind power plants in Bavanište (Serbia). It deals with the experience in the making of urban planning documentation for the first wind power plant in Serbia from the aspect of possible environmental conflicts related to the utilization of alternative energy sources – preservation of natural resources. SEA is one of the most important instruments for the implementation of the sustainable development strategy in planning. By applying SEA in planning, it is possible to realize the spatial consequences of the proposed changes in space, considering the needs of subject location. Although the general methodology and procedures of SEA design and its adoption, as well as the content of SEA report are defined by the legislation of the European countries, there is no universal methodology for environmental impact assessment study plans. Specific environmental impacts of certain plans require a global perception of planning solutions in the context of realizing the aims of sustainable development.