Increasing energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy are the most important actions that can be taken to combat climate changes. As a result, the growth of clean energy will likely be one of the major economic engines of the coming decade.

Wind energy as a renewable energy source attracts considerable interest in the climate change debate. The development of wind energy, however, faces a number of legal or regulatory challenges. This book provides an insight into the legal frameworks of selected countries and#8211; Denmark, New Zealand, Norway and the United States and#8211; relevant to the development of wind energy. It explores the legal traditions and systems as well as the more specific environmental and energy legislation. The book has been elaborated in an educational setting, but it is relevant to a much broader audience, including legislators, public and private decision-makers and other stakeholders involved in wind energy issues.