Renewables vs fossil fuels - is it a level playing field?

One of the aspects that are really hard to compare and get right when comparing renewable vs fossil energy is the total cost of each of them. This is mainly due to the fact that there are so many open and hidden cost as well as subsidy schemes and fees - or lack thereof - that it is almost impossible to get a clear picture.

Among those aspects are for example the effects that are externalized by the energy producer. Another one is whether someone is paying a fee for exploiting a natural resource. 

Reading the below article about a gas company that wants to exploit a gas field near the Alps near Reichling - a small town in  Southern Bavaria - reminded me of one of those points I had almost forgotten.

While for example wind power operators have to pay high fees to erect turbines in the Bavarian state forest, the company in question is allowed to exploit gas in Reichling for practically nothing.

I just think that this policy - apart from drilling for gas in general in our day and age - doesn`t make any sense. I would be curious to hear your thoughts.