RWE Innogy is taking over six proposed wind energy projects in the Czech Republic with a total volume of 100MW from project developer Aufwind Energie as well as acquiring its local project development company AFE Bohemia.

The German utility has said that building permission for the six locations in Bohemia and North Moravia is expected between 2009 and 2011.

RWE Innogy noted that renewable energy reportedly accounts for 4.7% of power generation in the Czech Republic. By 2010, this share is expected to increase to 8%. The European Commission has set a target of 13% for the year 2020. At present, less than 100MW of wind power capacity is installed in the country.

Mr Fritz Vahrenholt chairman of RWE Innogy said that "The Czech Republic has long numbered among RWE's core markets. With the current transaction, we are securing a good starting position, which will allow us to substantially grow in the area of renewable energy here.”