Is federalism curbing the transition to renewable energies? This book delivers fundamental insights into this key question for a more sustainable future using the example of multi-level authorisation procedures for onshore wind turbines. The author begins by establishing a broadly applicable theoretical framework to evaluate the impact of decentralisation on the effectiveness of public administration authorities. Thereafter, he analyses the procedure for granting permits for wind turbines in Switzerland and Europe, using a plethora of primary data and deploying a broad array of methods. Overall, the book is the first to provide a detailed and comparative study on wind energy permits, thereby seeking to help remove this significant barrier to the expansion of renewables.