Development of wind parks is possible in whole Latvia's territory - LVM

RIGA - Development of wind parks is possible in practically whole Latvia's territory, said Latvijas Valsts Mezi (LVM) state forest manager, commenting on the permission granted by the Cabinet of Ministers for Latvenergo and LVM to establish a joint venture in order to strengthen Latvia's energy independence and develop strategic wind parks.

LVM representatives said that a wind map is being drawn up in order to assess the best locations, but practically wind parks can be built in whole Latvia's territory.

At the same time, LVM says that wind parks will not be built in nature territories where the main goal is protection of nature, and territories of culture heritage.

"The planning and development of a wind park might take 3-5 years. The preparation stage before starting the construction is specially important," said LVM representatives.

As reported, the government on June 21 decided to give permission to Latvenergo energy company and LVM state forest manager to establish a joint venture for building large wind farms to strengthen Latvia's energy security and independence.

The objective of the project is to achieve an 800 megawatt capacity at several large wind farms across Latvia, which would be nearly equivalent to the electricity output of Latvia's largest hydroelectric power plant on the Daugava River in Plavinas.