Greek Wind Energy Association Refutes Claims Wind Turbines Spark Forest Fires

The Hellenic Scientific Association of Wind Energy (ELTEAN) says allegations linking recent forest fires in Oriaokastro to wind turbines are unfounded. It notes that public data from the national geoinformation map show no wind‑farm applications within several kilometres of the blaze and that the only 2024 request for 18 turbines, now withdrawn, was situated about five kilometres away, separated by the town’s urban area.

ELTEAN adds that even if an application existed, wind‑turbine installations are permitted under the constitution, law and Council of State within forest lands, and that forest fires actually obstruct licensing and construction rather than facilitate turbine projects. The association highlights that wind‑farm infrastructure occupies a negligible portion of forested areas.