In a race to meet the EU’s ambitious renewable energy targets by 2030, European wind farm expansion is becoming a focal point for producers across the continent. As reported by Euronews correspondent Andrea Bolitho, the European Commission has stated that the EU needs an additional 31 gigawatts (GW) of wind power capacity annually to reach a renewable energy target of 42.5% by 2030.
Despite a 47% increase in the number of wind farms built in 2022 compared to the previous year, the EU is still falling short of its yearly goals, emphasizing the urgent need for accelerated European wind farm expansion.
ZF Wind Power, located in northern Belgium, plays a pivotal role in this expansion as a leader in manufacturing wind turbine gearboxes. Felix Henseler, CEO of ZF Wind Power, conveyed to Euronews the challenges in doubling production by next year but remained optimistic about utilizing underused factory capacities for rapid growth. ZF Wind Power is integral to the European wind farm expansion, supplying powertrains to Vestas, the world’s leading wind turbine manufacturer.
The European wind farm expansion is not just about manufacturing. Morten Dyrholm, Group Senior Vice President for Vestas, stressed the need for simplifying bureaucratic processes in Europe, where it can take up to ten years for a wind power project to start producing electricity. This streamlining is crucial for the EU to achieve its wind goals effectively.
Moreover, the EU’s plan of action includes focusing on renewable energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and limit global warming. Offshore wind is expected to significantly contribute to Europe’s energy targets. The Wind Power Package, launched by Brussels, aims to accelerate the industry’s build-out, streamline permitting rules, and improve auctions. Additionally, 26 member states have committed to implementing necessary changes through the European Wind Charter to increase wind farms and enhance the competitiveness of Europe’s wind value chain.
Currently, wind power accounts for 19% of Europe’s electricity consumption, with the 17 GW built last year covering the total electricity needs of Portugal. To reach a capacity of 451 GW by 2030, from 180 GW today, scaling up production is key.
Giles Dickson, CEO of WindEurope, highlighted the simplification of permitting as a positive development. However, he cautioned against the rising competition from Chinese manufacturers and Europe’s heavy dependence on China for rare earth elements essential for turbine manufacturing. The EU aims to reduce this dependency and diversify its supply chain, a crucial step in the successful European wind farm expansion and achieving long-term sustainability in renewable energy.