On 4 September 2025, a specialist conference on the landscape-compatible integration of ground-mounted photovoltaic systems was held at the University for Sustainable Development in Eberswalde. Under the title “The Landscape and Renewable Energy”, the event explored the conflicts between the energy transition, spatial design, and landscape compatibility – a topic of growing relevance.
FJP contributed two expert presentations to the event. In the morning, Dr Doreen Zirkler spoke under the title “Land Use Planning for Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic Systems and the Role of the Landscape”, sharing FJP’s experience with site potential analyses for solar installations and ways in which the landscape can be considered when selecting locations. Her presentation focused on the comprehensive concept for ground-mounted PV systems developed for the municipality of Luckau, while also showcasing results from other PV studies conducted in the municipality of Pritzwalk, the Amt Lieberose, and the Oder-Spree district.
In the afternoon, Ralf Wegner addressed the conference topic from a different perspective. His talk, entitled “Technical Aesthetics in Contrast to the Natural Landscape?! … it’s all a matter of perspective”, provided a foundation for understanding the concept of landscape character. He encouraged the audience to adopt an open attitude towards the visual impact of solar installations and to form their own opinions on creative design options and innovative solar module concepts. He also invited them to consider the visual appearance of solar farms in honest comparison with that of intensively cultivated agricultural land.
FJP draws on many years of experience in developing landscape planning strategies – especially at the interface between technical infrastructure and designed cultural and open spaces.
Image: bdla