Europe stands at a crucial juncture in its energy transition, having achieved a commendable 20% of its electricity generation from wind energy in 2024. However, the figures released by WindEurope reveal a glaring shortfall in new wind farm developments, raising serious questions about the continent’s ability to meet its ambitious energy targets by 2030. The stark reality is that Europe built only 13GW of onshore wind and 2.3GW of offshore wind last year, a far cry from the 30GW required annually to stay on track.
WindEurope’s CEO, Giles Dickson, has pinpointed three main culprits behind this disappointing performance: the urgent need for revamped permitting rules, persistent delays in grid connections, and the sluggish pace of economic electrification. His assertion that “more wind means cheaper power which means increased competitiveness” underscores the economic imperative of ramping up wind energy production. Yet, despite the introduction of binding new EU permitting rules, many nations have yet to integrate these regulations into their national frameworks. Germany, however, stands out as a beacon of progress, having permitted nearly 15GW of new onshore wind projects in line with the new rules. If other countries are serious about energy security and enhancing industrial competitiveness, they must take a page from Germany’s playbook.
The potential for wind energy in Europe is staggering, with around 500GW of capacity awaiting assessment for grid applications. Yet, this potential remains largely untapped due to systemic inefficiencies. A prime example is the 900MW Borkum Riffgrund 3 offshore wind farm in Germany, which is fully installed but remains stranded, unable to connect to the grid until 2026. This situation epitomizes the frustrating bottlenecks that plague the sector, stalling what could be a rapid transition to renewable energy.
The urgency of electrifying the economy cannot be overstated. Currently, electricity accounts for just 23% of all energy consumed in the EU, but this figure must rise to 61% by 2050 to meet climate goals. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has recognized this pressing need, assigning Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen the task of formulating an Electrification Action Plan. WindEurope emphasizes that this plan cannot come soon enough, as the clock ticks down on climate commitments.
The challenges are clear, but so are the opportunities. The transition to a wind-powered future is not just about meeting targets; it’s about economic vitality, energy independence, and sustainable growth. As nations grapple with the complexities of energy policy, the time for decisive action is now. Europe must not only harness its wind potential but also streamline the processes that hinder its progress. The path forward demands collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to a greener future. Without it, the dream of a robust, wind-driven energy landscape may remain just that—a dream.
