Act on Promotion of Renewable Energy (No. 122 of 2015).

This Act, last updated in September 2024, outlines Denmark's legal framework to advance the use of renewable energy sources. Its central aim is to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, enhance energy security, and cut greenhouse gas emissions in accordance with national and international climate goals. The Act applies broadly to renewable electricity generation systems, such as wind turbines (onshore and offshore), solar power, wave and hydro energy, and includes support schemes, permitting, and environmental considerations. The law defines what constitutes renewable energy and grants the Minister for Climate, Energy, and Utilities powers to implement detailed regulations, especially regarding EU directives and international agreements.
A key section of the Act deals with local impacts of renewable energy installations, requiring developers to compensate homeowners for property value loss and to offer buyout options (salgsoption) in certain cases. It introduces mechanisms like the VE-bonus (a local benefit payment to neighbors of installations) and a “green pool” fund to support municipalities where projects are built. These provisions aim to foster public acceptance. The law also details how developers must conduct community consultations, comply with environmental and technical standards, and follow streamlined procedures for permitting and connection to the electricity grid. Special rules apply for sea-based installations, reinforcing state control over offshore energy areas while encouraging innovation through test projects and public tenders.
The Act consists of 12 Chapters: Purpose, scope and definitions (1); Measures to promote the expansion of renewable energy (2); Access to the use of renewable energy sources at sea (3); Connection and safety requirements for wind turbines, solar panel systems, etc. (4); Curtailment of electricity production for tendered offshore wind farms (5); Surcharges, etc. (6); Temporary suspension of certain support schemes (6a); General provisions on renewable energy support schemes (6b); Sustainability and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, etc.; (6c); Administrative provisions (7); The Danish Utility Regulator (8); Complaints, the Energy Appeals Board, etc. (9); Injunctions and sanction provisions (10); Entry into force (11); Amendment provisions (12).