Environmental Impact Declarations and Assessments

Realized projects: Windsfeld wind farm, Ötztal 110 kV line, Golling hydroelectric power plant

Environmental impact declarations and assessments are a key instrument for identifying and evaluating the potential impact of planned projects on the environment at an early stage, minimizing interference with nature and promoting the sustainable development of infrastructure and construction projects.

Services – Natural Hazards Division

While the field of natural hazards does not constitute a protected asset in the strict sense of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act (UVP-Gesetz), it can nevertheless provide essential input for route alignment and site selection of project components. Early integration into project planning allows for the identification of potential hazard zones and the development of optimized solutions for routes and site locations.

Natural Hazard Maps as a Basis for Planning

As early as the initial planning phases, we prepare natural hazard indication maps (current status) that clearly highlight risk areas. These maps support the selection of potential locations and route sections in a way that minimizes risks and ensures compliance with safety requirements.

Assessment of Construction and Operational Phases

The effects of natural hazard processes are analyzed separately for the construction and operational phases. If, despite optimized planning, risks remain for route sections or site locations, we carry out detailed hazard analyses.

Following a thorough site inspection, we use advanced 2D and 3D process simulations to model the relevant types of natural hazard processes – such as rockfall, avalanches, landslides, debris flows, or flooding.

In addition to protecting infrastructure, a key focus is placed on ensuring the safety of individuals – both during construction and during maintenance and servicing activities in the operational phase.

Risk Mitigation Measures

Based on the results of the hazard analysis, we develop tailored proposals for risk mitigation. These include structural or organizational solutions according to the TOP principle (technical, organizational, and personal protective measures), covering all phases of the project and ensuring safety at affected sites and along route sections.