Rootsi detailplaneeringu piiriülene keskkonnamõju strateegiline hindamine

Vastavalt nimekirjale 22.05.2026 nr 6-3/26/2004-2 Rootsi detailplaneeringu piiriülene keskkonnamõju strateegiline hindamine Rootsi on piiriülese keskkonnamõju hindamise konventsiooni (Espoo konventsiooni) keskkonnamõju strateegilise hindamise (KSH) protokolli alusel teavitanud Eestit seoses kavandatavast energia tootmise detailplaneeringust, mis hõlmab ka võimalikku tuumaelektrijaama Oskarshamni vallas Rootsis. Oskarshamni vald asub Rootsi lõunaosas idarannikul. Planeeringuala (u 100 hektarit) asub Oskarshamni linnast põhja pool ning piirneb idas Läänemerega ja lõunas olemasoleva tuumaelektrijaamaga. Planeeringuga kavandatav maakasutus hõlmab fossiilkütustevaba energia, sealhulgas võimalikku tuumaenergia tootmist, samuti sellega seotud rajatisi ja tugifunktsioone. Praegu ei ole kavandatud tegevuste jaoks kindlaks määratud operaatorit ega arendajat. Kirjale on lisatud Rootsi saadetud ingliskeelne konsultatsioonidokument, milles on lisainfo planeeringu ja planeeringuala ning KSH/keskkonnamõju hindamise ulatuse ja metoodika kohta. Konsultatsioonidokumendis käsitletakse piiriülest keskkonnamõju eelkõige riskide vaates, mis hõlmab kavandatava maakasutusega seotud riske, st inimeste tervisele ja keskkonnale tegevuse ajal tekkivaid riske, samuti kumulatiivseid mõjusid seoses olemasoleva tuumaenergiajaama tegevusega. Kuna ei ole veel teada, millist tüüpi suuremahuline energiatootmine piirkonda rajatakse (tuumaenergia on üks alternatiividest), ei hinnata praegu üksikasjalikult võimalikke kiirgus- või muid tegevuspõhiseid riske. Dokumendis märgitakse, et kui hiljem osutub valituks tegevus, mis võib kaasa tuua piiriülese keskkonnamõju (näiteks tuumaenergia tootmine), viiakse Espoo konventsiooni kohased konsultatsioonid läbi loamenetluse raames. Lähtuvalt Rootsi määratud vastamistähtajast ootame 22. juuniks 2026 põhjendatud arvamusi selle kohta, kas Eesti peaks osalema Rootsi detailplaneeringu piiriüleses KSH menetluses (e -posti aadressil [email protected]). Juhul, kui peate vajalikuks Eesti osalemist menetluses, on oodatud ka põhjendatud arvamused selle kohta, milline oluline kahjulik piiriülene keskkonnamõju võib Eestile kaasneda, et sellega saaks arvestada KSH materjalide koostamisel. Lugupidamisega (allkirjastatud digitaalselt) Antti Tooming elurikkuse ja keskkonnakaitse asekantsler Lisad: Konsultatsioonidokument Ülle Luiks, 623 1220 [email protected] Suur-Ameerika 1 / Tallinn 10122 / 626 2802/ [email protected] / www.kliimaministeerium.ee/ Registrikood 70001231  DOCUMENTATION FOR THE SCOPING CONSULTATION PRIOR TO THE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) FOR THE DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PLAN DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR PART OF ÄVRÖ 1:16, FIGEHOLM, OSKARSHAMN MUNICIPALITY, KALMAR COUNTY 2026-04-07 PROJEKTBYGGAREN TEKNIK SYD AB Kontoret i Karlskrona: Stortorget 10, 371 34 Karlskrona, Sweden www.projektbyggaren.se Responsible Person: Jessica Andersson Reviewed by: Johanna Persson 1 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE OF THE DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PLAN Oskarshamn Municipality intends to prepare a new detailed development plan for the property Ävrö 1:16.The purpose of the plan is to create conditions for the establishment of activities related to fossil-free energy production, as well as functions and facilities that support and complement such activities. Through the detailed development plan, the municipality seeks to enable development of the area that can contribute to the ongoing energy transition and strengthen the conditions for a sustainable energy supply. At present, there is no identified operator or developer for the intended activities. The current planning area is located north of the Simpevarp Peninsula, where the Oskarshamn Nuclear Power Plant is situated, approximately ten kilometers northeast of Figeholm in Oskarshamn Municipality. The area is located in proximity to existing energy-related infrastructure (the Oskarshamn Nuclear Power Plant), making the site strategically attractive for future energy-related investments. The area has previously been designated as a development area for energy production in the municipality’s comprehensive planning. Figure 1. Location of the Planning Area in Sweden. 2 The property Ävrö 1:16 consists largely of undeveloped land, characterised by natural areas and forest. Within the property, there are a limited number of existing buildings that are owned and used by OKG/Uniper as part of the existing nuclear operations. In the continued planning process, consideration will be given to existing values within the area as well as to surrounding land use. The detailed development plan aims to assess the suitability of the land for the proposed development and to establish a clear framework for how the area may be utilised in a long-term and sustainable manner. Figure 2. Location of the planning area in Oskarshamn Municipality. The nearest access to the current planning area from the regional road network is via Road 743 (primary county road), which connects to the E22 approximately ten kilometres from the area. Road 743 runs from Fårbo at the junction with the E22, via Figeholm and the Simpevarp Peninsula, and further north towards Klintemåla. The road constitutes an important transport link in the area and is used by a wide range of traffic types and transport needs. Along this section, traffic includes residents of the area, commuters travelling to workplaces at Simpevarp, tourists, and freight transport. The traffic on the road comprises several modes of transport, including passenger cars, buses, heavy goods vehicles, bicycles, tractors, and pedestrians. According to the National Road Database (NVDB), traffic volumes vary between different road sections and amount to approximately 1,000–4,000 vehicles per annual average daily traffic (AADT). 1.2 SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Oskarshamn Municipality has carried out a screening for significant environmental impact (Reference No. SBN 2024/000284). The overall assessment is that the implementation of the detailed development plan may entail significant impacts on the environment, human health, and the management of land and water resources. On this basis, the detailed development plan is considered likely to result in significant environmental impact. 3 Consequently, a strategic environmental assessment in accordance with the Environmental Code shall be conducted, and an Environmental Impact Assessment shall be prepared as part of the continued planning process. 1.3 TRANSBOUNDARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT The Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context, the so-called Espoo Convention, is an environmental protection convention ratified by Sweden. The Convention is complemented by the Protocol on Strategic Environmental Assessment, which has also been signed by Sweden. The purpose of the Convention is to ensure that its Parties assess the environmental impacts of certain activities at an early stage of planning, and that they notify and consult one another regarding activities listed in the Convention that are likely to result in significant adverse transboundary impacts. The present proposal for a detailed development plan allows for activities of such a nature that, in accordance with the Espoo Convention (the Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context), an obligation arises to also consult affected neighbouring countries. Consultation under the Espoo Convention is conducted within the framework of the detailed development plan process pursuant to the Planning and Building Act (2010:900), the strategic environmental assessment in accordance with Chapter 6 of the Environmental Code and the Environmental Assessment Ordinance (2017:966), as well as in connection with the specific environmental assessment. The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (Naturvårdsverket) coordinates the Espoo consultation process. Oskarshamn Municipality maintains an ongoing dialogue with the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency regarding the design and implementation of the Espoo consultation. Figure 3. Location of the planning area in Northern Europe. The planning area is indicated in red. 4 2 OVERVIEW OF THE CONTENT OF THE DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PLAN The current planning area comprises approximately 100 hectares and is located in direct proximity to the existing nuclear power plant. Within parts of the planning area, the detailed development plan proposal is intended to allow for large-scale fossil-free energy production, including nuclear power (e1). The area designated for energy production amounts to approximately 80 hectares. In addition to enabling fossil-free energy production, the detailed development plan will also provide opportunities for other land uses indirectly related to the activity, such as temporary accommodation in the form of cabins and campsites, as well as office facilities (approximately 15 hectares). The current planning area Existing Nuclear Power Plant Figure 4. The current planning area. 3 SITE SELECTION STUDY Pursuant to Chapter 2, Section 6 of the Environmental Code (MB), the location of the proposed activity shall be selected on the basis of the site that is most suitable, taking into account that the purpose can be achieved with the least intrusion and adverse impact on human health and the environment. As the proposed activity requires that new land areas be taken into use, the choice of location shall also be made with due regard to the resource management provisions set out in Chapters 3 and 4 of the Environmental Code. A site selection study has been carried out based on both a national and, subsequently, a local perspective. In the evaluation of the different location alternatives considered, both fundamental prerequisites (such as the extent of available land area, electricity capacity, etc.) and the requirements of the Environmental Code have been taken into account. 5 In the final assessment, the advantages of the current planning area have been assessed as being significantly greater when compared with the other alternatives. The site selection study will be presented in full in the Environmental Impact Assessment for the detailed development plan. 4 CONDITIONS AND PREREQUISITES 4.1 MUNICIPAL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The Comprehensive Plan for Oskarshamn Municipality was adopted by the Municipal Council in February 2023. Among other matters, the plan sets out the municipality’s objectives for reducing carbon dioxide emissions: “By 2030, Oskarshamn will be a municipality with no net emissions of fossil carbon dioxide and part of a fossil-fuel-free region.” In order to achieve a long-term sustainable use of land and water resources, the municipality has developed eleven overarching development strategies within the framework of the comprehensive plan. These strategies are intended to serve as guidance for promoting economically, socially, and ecologically sustainable development within the municipality. One of these strategies emphasises that Oskarshamn Municipality shall take responsibility for the energy supply from both a regional and a national perspective. The municipality shall also work to create favourable conditions for a long-term renewable energy supply through forward-looking and sustainable planning. The comprehensive plan further highlights that there are good opportunities within the municipality to contribute to the climate transition by developing and providing areas for fossil-free energy production. However, the current planning area is not specifically designated in the municipality’s comprehensive plan. 4.2 DETAILED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The current planning area is covered by the Detailed Comprehensive Plan for the Simpevarp and Laxemar area, etc., which was adopted by the Municipal Council on 8 October 2007. The purpose of the detailed comprehensive plan was to initiate the municipality’s physical planning in preparation for a potential establishment of a final repository for spent nuclear fuel, as well as an encapsulation facility, within the Simpevarp and Laxemar area. In the detailed comprehensive plan, large parts of Ävrö (including the planning area) are designated as suitable for energy-related activities. This designation is motivated, among other factors, by the area’s strategic location in relation to existing infrastructure. 4.3 APPLICABLE DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PLANS The current planning area is not covered by any adopted detailed development plans. However, the area borders an adopted detailed development plan, MA72 – Oskarshamn Nuclear Power Plant Operational Area (entered into legal force on 26 January 1988). This detailed development plan primarily prescribes the land uses nuclear power plant, industrial facilities, port purposes, high-voltage transmission lines and substations, as well as an industrial park. 6 4.4 AREAS OF NATIONAL INTEREST An area of national interest is a land or water area that is considered to possess values of national importance and shall therefore be protected against measures that may harm these values. Such areas may, for example, relate to nature conservation, transport infrastructure, cultural heritage conservation, outdoor recreation, or commercial fishing. Consideration of areas of national interest shall be taken in physical planning, including comprehensive and detailed development planning, as well as in permitting and licensing procedures. The values associated with an area of national interest must not be subject to significant damage. Provisions concerning areas of national interest are set out in Chapters 3 and 4 of the Environmental Code. Areas of national interest shall be protected against measures that may result in significant damage to the area. The assessment of what constitutes significant damage is always site-specific and related to the nature and extent of the proposed measure. In general, an intervention that entails the loss of the values that motivated the designation of the area shall be considered to constitute significant damage (General Guidance, SNV NFS 2005:17). The planning area is affected by areas of national interest designated pursuant to both Chapters 3 and 4 of the Environmental Code. The areas of national interest concerned are as follows:  An area of national interest for final disposal means that an area is of national importance for facilities required for the management and final disposal of radioactive waste, such as spent nuclear fuel. Such areas may be designated as areas of national interest pursuant to Chapter 3 of the Environmental Code, as they are considered particularly important for the country’s energy supply and nuclear activities. In Oskarshamn Municipality, areas around Simpevarp and Laxemar have been designated as areas of national interest related to the final disposal of spent nuclear fuel and other nuclear activities. This designation is linked to the existing nuclear infrastructure in the area and the investigations carried out for the siting of a final repository. The current planning area is covered by this area of national interest.  Area of national interest for energy production pursuant to Chapter 3, Section 8 of the Environmental Code -Areas of national interest for energy production refer to areas in Sweden that are particularly important for energy production at the national level. These areas are designated to ensure a secure and sustainable energy supply and shall be considered in planning and permitting processes. The Swedish Energy Agency has been assigned a new mandate to review areas of national interest for energy production up to and including 25 March 2026. According to the Swedish Energy Agency, the planning area is designated as an area of national interest for energy production, meaning that it is of strategic importance for electricity and power supply in Sweden. The detailed delimitation of this area of national interest is classified.  Area of national interest for energy distribution pursuant to Chapter 3, Section 8 of the Environmental Code- Areas of national interest for energy distribution comprise land and water areas designated to safeguard key components of the energy system, such as power transmission lines and transformer substations. 7   Area of national interest for the natural environment – The archipelagos of Västervik and Oskarshamn (pursuant to Chapter 3, Section 6 of the Environmental Code)- According to the official factsheet (County Administrative Board of Kalmar County), the area of national interest consists of a well-developed Precambrian bedrock archipelago with significant geological and biological values. The area includes a representative agricultural landscape with long continuity and a substantial presence of semi-natural pastures containing representative and species- and individual-rich plant communities. The area also hosts a species-rich breeding and migratory bird fauna.  Area of national interest for outdoor recreation – Northern Småland Archipelago (pursuant to Chapter 3, Section 6 of the Environmental Code)- According to the official factsheet (County Administrative Board of Kalmar County, 2016), this area of national interest offers particularly good conditions for experiences in natural and cultural environments. This includes both land-based outdoor activities and activities associated with water, providing enriching and recreational experiences for visitors.  Area of national interest for outdoor recreation of national mobility value – Coastal areas and archipelagos of Småland and Östergötland (pursuant to Chapter 4, Section 2 of the Environmental Code)- The area comprises large parts of the Småland coast, including the archipelagos of Västervik and Oskarshamn. The area is of particular value for boating, coastal recreation, and tourism. In addition to its importance for outdoor recreation, unbroken stretches of coastline are also protected.  Area of national interest for highly exploited coastline – The coastal area Bröms–Simpevarp (pursuant to Chapter 4, Section 2 of the Environmental Code)- This area is designated to balance high development pressure from holiday housing, tourism, and infrastructure with the need to secure public access to shorelines and to preserve natural and cultural values. The coastline is varied, featuring bays, islands, and shallow beaches, and is of great importance for outdoor recreation and coastal natural values. Several areas with high natural values are located within or adjacent to the area of national interest. The planning area is not affected by any Natura 2000 sites. 4.5 NATURE RESERVES No nature reserves are affected. 4.6 SHORE PROTECTION Shore protection is a regulatory protection that generally applies along the coast, at lakes, and along watercourses. The protected area normally extends 100 meters from the shoreline, both on land and in the water area. The County Administrative Board may extend shore protection up to 300 meters where this is necessary to ensure that the purposes of shore protection are met. The current planning area is subject to extended shore protection of 300 meters. The shore protection is intended to be addressed through revocation within the framework of the present detailed development plan. 8 Figure 5. The planning area is subject to extended shore protection of 300 metres. Source: Comprehensive Plan for Oskarshamn Municipality. Oskarshamn Municipality, 2023. 4.7 PROTECTED SPECIES Several protected species have been identified on Ävrö. These include, among others:  Hazel dormouse  Smooth snake  Bats  Birds  Amphibians (common toad, common frog, great crested newt, and smooth newt) The detailed development plan may also affect additional protected species, which will be investigated within the framework of the ongoing planning process. 4.8 ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY STANDARDS FOR WATER The water area surrounding Ävrö comprises two coastal water bodies that are subject to Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) for water. These are:  Granholmsfjärden (WA54645967). For Granholmsfjärden, the quality requirements for ecological status are set at Good ecological status by 2039, as well as Good chemical surface water status. 9   The Simpevarp Area (WA58194721). For the Simpevarp area, the quality requirements for ecological status are set at Good ecological status by 2027, as well as Good chemical surface water status. Granholmsfjärden The Simpevarp Area Figure 6. Environmental quality standards for water. Source: VISS (extraction date: 2026-03-11). 4.9 EMERGENCY PLANNING ZONE AND SAFETY DISTANCES South-west of the current planning area, there is an existing nuclear power plant. In Oskarshamn, emergency preparedness in relation to the nuclear power plant comprises an inner emergency planning zone of 5 km and an outer emergency planning zone of 25 km, see Figure 7. Within a radius of 2 km from the reactors Oskarshamn I and Oskarshamn II, new buildings may not be constructed without a permit from the County Administrative Board. However, Oskarshamn I and Oskarshamn II are not in operation. Within an area of 10 km from the nuclear power plant, development shall be planned to ensure good possibilities for evacuation from the area. Developments that may be difficult to evacuate, such as nursing homes, hospitals, and similar facilities, should be avoided. In matters concerning detailed development plans, consultation shall be carried out with the Defence Unit of the County Administrative Board and the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM). 10  Outer emergency Inner emergency planning zone planning zone Figure 7. Inner and outer emergency planning zones. Source: Comprehensive Plan for Oskarshamn Municipality. Oskarshamn Municipality, 2023. 4.10 CULTURAL HERITAGE The current planning area is not covered by any area of national interest for cultural heritage. However, the planning area contains a large number of heritage remains. Within the area, there are archaeological monuments, other cultural-historical remains, as well as potential archaeological remains. Figure 8. A large number of archaeological remains are present on Ävrö. Source: Swedish National Heritage Board (extraction date: 2026-03-11). 11 5 PROPOSED SCOPE 5.1 TEMPORAL SCOPE  The temporal scope is defined up to the year 2045, which is considered to be the year by which the full development rights are expected to have been fully utilised. 5.2 LEVEL OF DETAIL  Pursuant to Chapter 6, Section 12 of the Environmental Code, the scope and level of detail of an Environmental Impact Assessment shall be reasonable with regard to: 1. assessment methods and the current state of knowledge, 2. the content and level of detail of the plan or programme, 3. the stage of the decision-making process at which the plan or programme is situated, 4. the fact that certain issues may be better assessed in connection with the assessment of other plans and programmes or in the permitting process for activities or measures, and 5. the interest of the public. 5.3 GEOGRAPHICAL SCOPE The spatial scope is primarily defined by the boundaries of the planning area, see Figure 9. However, for certain environmental aspects, impacts may also occur beyond the boundaries of the planning area itself. For example, with regard to noise impacts and environmental quality standards for water, the geographical scope is broader. The geographical area affected thus varies depending on the aspect being assessed. Figure 9. The current planning area. 12 5.4 THEMATIC SCOPE 5.4.1 Analysis of Aspects in Accordance with Chapter 6, Section 2 of the Environmental Code  Based on the aspects set out in Chapter 6, Section 2 of the Environmental Code, an analysis has been carried out to identify which aspects may be considered likely to result in significant environmental impact.  1. Population and Human Health  Recreation and Outdoor recreation- The detailed development plan entails that, once the operational area has been established, land, within the actual operational area will no longer be available for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. Large parts of Ävrö may therefore be negatively affected from a recreational perspective. Traffic and Noise- The proposed land use may result in changes to traffic flows and transport needs, which may affect the existing residential environment through, for example, increased noise levels and altered traffic safety conditions. Risks- The detailed development plan is intended to assess the possibility for fossil-free energy production to be established within parts of the planning area. In the surroundings of the planning area, there are existing Seveso establishments, such as the Oskarshamn Nuclear Power Plant, which may be affected by the land use proposed in the detailed development plan. Existing Seveso establishments may also have a negative impact on the proposed land use within the detailed development plan. In addition, there is a risk of accidents related to the transport of dangerous goods.  2. Animal or Plant Species Protected under Chapter 8 of the Environmental Code, and Biological Diversity in General The detailed development plan may result in negative consequences for biological diversity, green infrastructure, and ecological connectivity. There is a risk that protected and red-listed species may be adversely affected.  3. Land, Soil, Water, Air, Climate, Landscape, Built Environment and Cultural Heritage Landscape Character- The detailed development plan proposal is assessed as likely to result in changes to the landscape character and increased visual exposure of the planning area to its surroundings. Areas that have previously been undeveloped will be taken into use. Cultural Heritage- There are known archaeological monuments and other cultural-historical values within the planning area that may be affected by the detailed development plan. Water- The detailed development plan affects two water bodies. The plan will lead to increased volumes of stormwater runoff due to a higher proportion of impermeable surfaces. There is a risk that the water bodies may be negatively affected. Climate Adaptation- In order to enable the proposed land use under the detailed development plan, adjustments to existing ground levels are likely to be required. It must also be ensured that water accumulation does not occur during heavy rainfall events, which could cause flooding both within and outside the planning area. 13 The planning area may also be affected by the expected sea-level rise. The existing access road to the planning area is located at low elevations and may be at risk of flooding during heavy rainfall events and due to sea-level rise. Accessibility to the facility must therefore be ensured.  4. Management of Land, Water and the Physical Environment in General The detailed development plan is assessed as likely to affect a number of areas of national interest.  5. Management of Materials, Raw Materials and Energy The planning area is designated as an area of national interest for energy production. The detailed development plan will enable fossil-free energy production; however, the specific type of energy production has not yet been determined. 6. Other Parts of the Environment Not applicable at this stage. 5.4.2 Aspects Considered Likely to Result in Significant Environmental Impact  The table below presents the aspects that, based on the analysis in Section 5.4.1, have been assessed as being likely to result in significant environmental impact, together with proposed scoping for each respective aspect. Table 1. Aspects Considered Likely to Result in Significant Environmental Impact.  Aspect  Scope of the Aspect The aspect is scoped to address the impact of the detailed development plan on landscape Landscape Character character. The aspect is scoped to address the impact of the detailed development plan on archaeological Cultural Heritage remains as well as other cultural-historical values. The aspect is scoped to address the impact of the detailed development plan on areas of Natural Environment national interest for natural environment, shore protection, and protected species. Impacts on ecological connectivity and green infrastructure will also be assessed. The aspect is scoped to address the impact of the detailed development plan on areas of Recreation and Outdoor national interest for outdoor recreation (pursuant to Chapters 3 and 4 of the Environmental recreation Code). The aspect is scoped to address the impact of the detailed development plan on environmental Water and Water Quality quality standards for coastal waters, increased flows, and risks of pollution from stormwater. Climate Adaptation Flooding (risk of flooding and extreme precipitation events). The aspect is scoped to address the impact of the detailed development plan on human health Human Health and the and the environment with regard to traffic noise, traffic and traffic safety, accessibility, and air Environment emissions from traffic. Impacts arising from the specific activity ultimately established are deferred to subsequent permitting processes, as the nature of the activity is currently unknown. The aspect is scoped to include an overall assessment of risks associated with the proposed land Risk use under the detailed development plan, given that the specific activity is not yet known. Risks related to the transport of dangerous goods will also be assessed. Climate Impact The aspect is scoped to address the climate impact of the detailed development plan. 14 5.4.3 Identification of Transboundary Environmental Impact Based on the analysis above, the aspects that are considered likely to result in transboundary environ- mental impact of the detailed development plan have also been identified. These comprise the following:  Risk – Scoped to risks associated with the proposed land use, i.e. risks to human health and the environment during operation, as well as cumulative effects in relation to existing nuclear activities. Within parts of the planning area, the detailed development plan proposes to allow for the establishment of large-scale fossil-free energy production, including nuclear power (e1). However, at present, it has not been determined which type of large-scale energy production will ultimately be established in the area, although nuclear power constitutes one of the alternatives. The specific risk-related consequences (for example, radiation risks in the event that nuclear power becomes relevant) will be investigated once the orientation of the activity has been clarified, as part of the permitting process. Should an activity that may entail transboundary environmental impact become relevant – such as, for example, nuclear power consultation in accordance with the Espoo Convention is expected to be carried out within the framework of the permit application process. 6 METHOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 6.1 IMPACT, EFFECT AND CONSEQUENCE As the specific type of activity within the proposed land use for fossil-free energy production (e1) has not yet been determined, it is not possible to assess in detail the consequences of the actual activity. In accordance with Chapter 6, Section 12 of the Environmental Code, such detailed assessments are therefore deferred to subsequent environmental permitting processes. The environmental assessment and the Environmental Impact Assessment shall identify and describe the significant environmental impacts that may arise as a result of the plan provisions for the environmental aspects identified during the scoping process. The consequences of the no-action alternative and the proposed plan will be assessed and presented in the text in comparison with the no-action alternative. The description will be based, inter alia, on the supporting studies that will be prepared both during the planning process and within the permitting process. The assessment of environmental consequences will be based on relevant municipal plans, programmes and objectives, national environmental quality objectives, current research, guideline values, and environmental quality standards. These will be presented in the Environmental Impact Assessment. The assessment of consequences will be carried out in several stages:  The value or sensitivity of the affected areas is assessed.  Impact – This refers to the change in physical or behavioural conditions that is caused by the proposed development.  Effect – This refers to the change, for example to the landscape character, that results from the impact. 15   Consequence – This constitutes the final step, in which the significance of the effect or change, is assessed, in relation to the assumed value or sensitivity of the area. In the Environmental Impact Assessment, a scale is used to evaluate the consequences. The scale is based on the relationship between existing values and the extent of the assessed environmental impact, and it may describe both positive and negative consequences.  Very large consequences – Consequences affecting areas of national interest or other interests at EU level, such as Natura 2000 sites, or where environmental quality standards are exceeded.  Large consequences – Consequences affecting areas of national interest or values of regional or municipal importance.  Small to moderate consequences – Consequences affecting areas or values of municipal importance, or areas or values of minor or local significance.  Negligible consequences – No or negligible consequences for national interests, or for areas or values of regional or local significance, are assessed to arise. In order to determine the type of consequence that may be expected to arise in the affected areas, the assumed value/sensitivity of the area is weighed against the anticipated impact on the area by means of a matrix, see Figure 12. The fact that an area of national interest is affected does not automatically mean that the plan proposal will result in large or very large consequences. For example, the impact may be very limited in extent or may affect only a small part of the area of interest. Conversely, impacts on aspects of a local nature—such as noise—may also be assessed as resulting in large consequences. Figure 12. Consequence assessment scale (Projektbyggaren Teknik Syd AB, 2025). 16 6.2 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA In order to describe and evaluate the changes that may result from the implementation of the detailed development plan, various legal or otherwise established objectives, guidelines, and regulatory frameworks will be applied. These are collectively referred to as assessment criteria. The assessment criteria are both overarching and aspect-specific in nature. Overarching assessment criteria are primarily used to evaluate whether the plan promotes long-term sustainable development and whether the plan gives due consideration to environmental concerns. Examples of such assessment criteria include the national environmental objectives. The second type of assessment criteria is more specific in nature and relates to individual environmental aspects. These include, among other things, various standards, specified objectives, guideline values, and recommendations issued by authorities. 6.3 UNCERTAINTIES The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be carried out in accordance with established practice and applicable legislation. Spatial analyses have been conducted based on cartographic material. In cases where the assessment could be based on applicable guideline values or standards, such comparisons have been carried out. The EIA is conducted on the basis of assessments of a future scenario. A major source of uncertainty is always how society develops over time. There is also inherent uncertainty as to whether all information required for a fully accurate assessment has been available. The assessments presented in the EIA may therefore involve a degree of subjectivity, even though the document will be reviewed by several different individuals. 6.4 MITIGATION MEASURES AND REGULATORY CONTROLS An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) shall constitute a basis for the public and decision-makers by describing the impacts of a detailed development plan on human health and the environment. An EIA is not legally binding in itself, and the measures proposed in the EIA document are therefore not automatically ensured through their inclusion in the document. In order to ensure that mitigation and other measures are implemented, they must instead be regulated through other legally binding instruments. This may be achieved by regulating the measures through plan provisions or by including them in a development agreement, if such an agreement be prepared for the detailed development plan. A development agreement is entered into between the municipality and the developer and regulates implementation issues related to the detailed development plan. At present, there is no identified operator for the detailed development plan. However, once development becomes relevant, a notification of environmentally hazardous activity pursuant to Chapter 9 of the Environmental Code will likely be required. Permit assessment pursuant to Chapter 11 of the Environmental Code, as well as other permitting processes, may also become applicable. In connection with the granting of permits, requirements for mitigation measures and technical performance will be imposed through permit conditions, some of which relate to environmental protection. 17 Examples of such conditions include limits on air emissions, noise levels, and water abstraction, etc. All permitted activities are required to submit annual environmental reports, which describe how compliance with the specified permit conditions is monitored and ensured. 6.5 ALTERNATIVES For the environmental assessment, two alternatives have been identified. These are as follows:  The detailed development plan proposal  The no-action alternative As the planning area is not covered by any adopted detailed development plans, the no-action alternative consists of the current land use projected into a future baseline scenario. 7 STUDIES A number of studies have been prepared, and additional studies will be prepared within the framework of the project (see list below). In addition to the studies listed below, further studies may be required. The studies will form the basis for the assessment of the effects and consequences of the detailed development plan.  Site selection study  Stormwater management study and cloudburst mapping  Risk assessment  Water supply study  Natural value inventory – including a detailed account of species occurrences limited to protected and red-listed species, as well as targeted surveys of amphibians, owls, line transect bird surveys, mapping of protected trees, hazel dormouse habitats, and smooth snake habitats.  Archaeological investigation  Traffic impact assessment  Traffic noise assessment  Targeted species survey of the smooth snake  Targeted species survey of the hazel dormouse  Targeted species survey of the European nightjar  Detailed inventory of habitats and roosting sites for bats As the specific type of activity within the proposed land use for fossil-free energy production (e1) has not yet been determined, no detailed studies of the actual activity are currently being carried out. These issues will instead be addressed within the framework of subsequent environmental permitting processes. 18 8 ROPOSED TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) A proposed structure for the forthcoming Environmental Impact Assessment is set out in the table of contents below. The description should be regarded as an example of how the scope of the Environmental Impact Assessment may be presented, rather than as a definitive structure. The table of contents is based on the applicable provisions set out in Chapter 6 of the Environmental Code and the Environmental Assessment Ordinance (2017:966). Förslag till utformning av den kommande miljökonsekvensbeskrivning framgår av nedanstående innehållsförteckning. Beskrivningen ska ses som ett exempel på redovisning av den avgränsning som miljökonsekvensbeskrivningen kommer att innehålla, och inte som en absolut utformning. Innehållsförteckningen baseras på gällande bestämmelser i 6 kap. miljöbalken och miljöbedömningsförordningen (2017:966). 1. Introduction 1.1 Purpose and Content of the Environmental Assessment 1.2 Compliance with the Requirement for Expertise 1.3 Background 1.4 Purpose of the Detailed Development Plan 2. Scope 2.1 Significant Environmental Impact and Screening 2.2 Scoping Consultation 2.3 Temporal Scope 2.4 Thematic Scope 2.5 Level of Detail 2.6 Geographical Scope 3. Methodology for the Environmental Assessment 3.1 Methodology for Compilation of Information and Assessment 3.2 Assessment Criteria 3.3 Uncertainties 3.4 Mitigation Measures and Regulatory Controls 4. Planning Conditions and Prerequisites 4.1 Current Land Use 4.2 Comprehensive Plan 4.3 Detailed Development Plans 19  4.4 Areas of National Interest 4.5 Environmental Objectives 4.6 Environmental Quality Standards 5. Alternatives Considered 5.1 No-Action Alternative 5.2 Alternative Location 5.3 Alternative Design 5.4 The Detailed Development Plan Proposal 5.5 Description of the Proposed Project 6. Effects and Consequences 6.1 Consequences of the No-Action Alternative (Alternatively, the consequences of the no-action alternative are described under each respective aspect) 6.2 Landscape Character (Scope of the aspect, assessment criteria and studies, consequences, and mitigation measures are addressed under each respective aspect) 6.3 Cultural Heritage 6.4 Natural Environment 6.5 Recreation and Outdoor Life 6.6 Water and Water Quality 6.7 Climate Adaptation 6.8 Traffic and Traffic Safety 6.9 Noise (Traffic Noise) 6.10 Risk and Safety 6.11 Climate Impact 7. Transboundary Environmental Impact 8. Impact on Environmental Objectives 8.1 National Environmental Objectives 8.2 Regional Environmental Objectives 8.3 Local Environmental Objectives 9. Cumulative Effects 20 10. Overall Assessment of Environmental Impact 10.1 Environmental Consequences of the Detailed Development Plan 10.2 Compliance with the Environmental Code (General Rules of Consideration, Resource Management Principles, etc.) 10.3 Environmental Objectives 10.4 Environmental Quality Standards 11. Monitoring 12 Assessments under Other Legislation 13. References 9 COMPLIANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENT FOR EXPERTISE Jessica Andersson, Projektbyggaren Teknik AB, is a specialist in environmental assessment and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and has worked with environmental and sustainability issues for 25 years. Jessica has extensive experience in leading, preparing, coordinating, and reviewing various impact assessments in accordance with the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive (Directive 2001/42/EC) and the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive (Directive 2011/92/EU). Jessica Andersson has developed a range of models and methods for strategic and project-specific environmental assessment, which have been applied in both governmental and municipal assignments. She has also authored the Swedish Transport Administration’s new handbook for Environmental Assessments in infrastructure projects and developed the assessment criteria that the Swedish Transport Administration applies nationally as a basis for its projects. Jessica Andersson has extensive experience in managing projects that involve both the Environmental Code and the Planning and Building Act (PBL) within the same project framework. One of her key strengths is her ability to quickly identify an appropriate level of environmental assessment and to effectively scope the environmental aspects that should be addressed within a project. 21