Impact Assessment of Renewable Energy in the Region: A Case Study of the Šluknov Agrivoltaic Power Plant

Abstract The ongoing energy crisis, the push for carbon neutrality, and the development of both European and national energy policies are driving significant changes in energy mix strategies. This is further supported by incentives, such as subsidies for operators of renewable energy sources (RES), which place municipalities and their mayors in a position to decide on the support for RES projects. The aim of the paper is to address the information asymmetry that exists among potential investors, mayors, and local residents through the introduction of an impact assessment tool. This tool, based on the multi-criteria analysis, is designed to help mayors and relevant stakeholders better comprehend the implications of RES and to evaluate their effects on local communities. The impacts of RES construction and operation are categorized into four key areas: environmental, social, economic, and innovative. The assessment process takes into account the unique characteristics of the local area, positioning the tool as a preliminary step before engaging in more resource-intensive methods such as feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments (EIA). The effectiveness of the developed tool is demonstrated through a case study on the impact assessment of a proposed agrivoltaic power plant in the Šluknov region. Notably, compared to traditional photovoltaic power plants, agrivoltaic systems significantly mitigate a range of negative environmental impacts. Consequently, the implementation of such a power plant is anticipated to yield positive economic and social benefits for the micro-region.