This protocol provides the criteria for the specialist assessment and mínimum report content requirements for impacts on avifaunal species associated with the development of onshore wind energy generation facilities, where the electricity output is 20 megawatts or more, which require environmental authorisation. This protocol replaces the requirements of Appendix 6 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations8.

The assessment and reporting requirements of this protocol are based on national and international best practice for the avoidance and mitigation of impacts on avifaunal species, and apply within and outside of Renewable Energy Development Zones9.

_____________________________________

8 The Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, as promulgated in terms of Section 24(5) of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998).

9 Renewable Energy Development Zones as published under Government Notice No. 114, Gazette No. 41445 on 16 February 2018