The Court of Justice of the European Union has ruled in favor of the legality of wind farm authorization procedures in Galicia, a decision that could significantly reshape the region’s energy landscape and reignite its wind energy sector. The ruling removes a legal obstacle that had stalled nearly 100 wind farm projects, collectively representing around 2.5GW of potential capacity.
The Wind Energy Business Association (AEE) welcomed the decision, stating it ends years of legal uncertainty. AEE director general Juan Virgilio Márquez emphasized the ruling’s broader implications: “This resolution restores the confidence of developers, strengthens the credibility of the legal framework, and allows us to urgently resume the path of wind energy development in Galicia.” He underscored the multifaceted benefits, including skilled employment, rural economic development, territorial cohesion, and climate commitments.
The AEE highlighted the severe consequences of the sector’s paralysis over the past three years, including damage to rural economies, delays in the energy transition, and stalled industrial investment. Galicia’s wind energy sector has lagged behind the rest of Spain, with only 171MW of new capacity installed since 2020, compared to 6GW nationwide. Currently, the region operates 186 wind farms with a total capacity of 3920MW, generating 8636GWh annually.
With 92 wind farms still subject to legal appeals, the AEE urged the High Court of Justice of Galicia to expedite the resolution of pending cases. The trade body also called for future rulings to prioritize the public interest in renewable energy as recognized under EU law.
This decision could accelerate Galicia’s wind energy development, potentially boosting its contribution to Spain’s renewable energy targets and stimulating local economic growth. However, the sector’s recovery will depend on the swift resolution of outstanding legal challenges and a renewed commitment to streamlining authorization processes. The ruling also sets a precedent for other regions grappling with similar legal hurdles, potentially shaping the trajectory of wind energy development across Europe.