Wind Energy in Paderborn: Planning and Impacts of the 167th Amendment to the Land Use Plan

Wind Energy in Paderborn: A Strategic Plan in February 2026

In 2026, the city of Paderborn has intensified its focus on the expansion of renewable energy sources. In particular, wind energy planning in the Altensenne area was a central topic in February 2026. The focus was on the 167th amendment to the land use plan, which aims to provide legal privileges for wind turbines. This article examines the background, legal foundations, and potential impacts of this decision.

Background: Wind Energy and Regional Guidelines

The planning of wind turbines in Altensenne takes place in the context of the regional guidelines of the Regional Plan OWL. Following the first amendment to the Regional Plan OWL, wind turbines are to be preferentially permitted in designated areas. This step is also part of the nationwide regulations, particularly the Wind Energy Land Requirement Act (WindBG) and the associated mitigation measures that must be mentioned in the environmental report.

Another central element is the "Rotor-out" principle, which allows the rotor blades of wind turbines to be located outside the special construction area. This model is seen as a compromise between energy generation and landscape protection.

The 167th Amendment to the Land Use Plan: Goal and Requirements

The 167th amendment to the land use plan aims to designate areas for wind energy in the form of special construction areas. This amendment was requested by Wüseke Baustoffwerke GmbH, which seeks to create additional areas for wind turbines. The planned designation concerns the area between Klausheider Straße, Altenserner Straße, and Hermann-Löns-Straße.

The administration has developed recommendations to enable the decision to proceed with the 167th amendment. Potential conflicts with species protection were also taken into account. The planning provides for up to four wind turbines that can be erected within the applicable building and environmental law requirements.

Further Planning Aspects and Potential Impacts

In addition to the designation of areas for wind turbines, the administration was also concerned with examining potential cycle path connections. A connection from the Wiesenpfad along the drainage ditch to the fish ponds is being examined to improve infrastructure in the Altensenne area. Two variants were discussed: the "Red Route" and the "Blue Route," with the latter involving a passage under the B1 via an existing tunnel.

In addition, there was a request for a status report on the amendment of the land use plan for the area between Sande and Sennelager. This request aims to determine whether applications for the construction of wind turbines already exist and whether the opportunities for the companies Wüseke and Calsitherm have changed.

Outlook: Wind Energy as Part of the Energy Transition in Paderborn

The planning and designation of wind energy areas in Paderborn is a step toward a sustainable energy supply. The city is using both regional and national guidelines to promote the expansion of renewable energies. At the same time, compromises are being made that take environmental concerns into account and improve infrastructure.

Therefore, in 2026, it will be crucial to see how the implementation of the 167th amendment to the land use plan progresses and what impact the planned wind turbines will have on the local environment. The coming months should provide further details on the specific plans and possible approval procedures.