Green, but at a Price!

Amid the energy transition and the voice of local communities, the debate about wind and solar parks in Western Greece is heating up. The Patras Gulf, one of the most important ecosystems in Western Greece, has become the target of green development. Wind parks in the mountains of Aetolia-Acarnania, solar panels in the plains around Patras and rumors of floating installations in the waters of the gulf. On paper, all of this seems like the future. But in praxis? Opinions are divided — and rightly so.

Nature Speaks First

The Patras Gulf hosts rare marine species, from the endangered caretta caretta turtles to the last schools of dolphins. The protected NATURA areas surrounding it, particularly the Achelous Delta, are not just “lines on maps.” They are living ecosystems already under pressure from pollution and overfishing. Reactions to this plan have been expressed by the Environmental and Sustainability Chamber, the local municipalities and the European Court of Auditors, which in a Special Report finds that numerous environmental aspects linked to the development of offshore wind parks have not yet been recognized, while their significant environmental footprint on marine life has not been sufficiently considered. The impacts of these projects will be unimaginable for the environment, the economy, tourism and fishing. So how green is a “green” investment when it threatens the very environment it is supposed to protect?

The Need for Clean Energy is Non-Negotiable

Greece, like the entire Mediterranean, is called to break free from fossil fuels. Renewable Energy Sources (RES) are a one-way street and the potential is enormous. The sun and wind of Western Greece can power thousands of households. However, the energy transition without social consent and respect for the landscape is not sustainable. It is imposition. From Aigialeia to Messolonghi, many residents feel that their voices are not being heard. Not because they reject the need for clean energy, but because they see projects being designed without their input, through fast-track procedures and without serious environmental studies.

Is There an Alternative?

Yes. Citizens’ participation, dialogue, energy communities, balanced project distribution and — above all — strategic siting with respect to nature. Placing wind turbines at 1,600 meters, on peaks with unique biodiversity, is not a green investment. It is a mistake. In Tilos, Kalamata and Thrace, energy communities are showing another way. Why not in the Patras Gulf?

The Green Transition Needs People, Not Just Megawatts

The discussion about RES in Western Greece and the Patras Gulf is much more than an energy project. It is a test of maturity for Greek society and the state.
Will we choose to rush toward the future with respect and dialogue or will we just place “green” boxes on maps, merely to meet targets?