Schleswig-Holstein front runner
Associations call for more speed in wind power expansion
07/18/2023, 1:05 p.m
By 2030, renewable energy sources should cover 80 percent of gross electricity consumption. According to industry associations, 331 wind turbines have been installed so far this year. However, the expansion is slowed down by several hurdles.
The expansion of wind turbines on land in Germany is progressing. According to industry associations, 331 wind turbines with a total output of around 1.56 gigawatts were installed in the first half of 2023. Because old systems were also shut down, there was a so-called net increase of around 1.32 gigawatts – 50 percent more than in the same half of the previous year.
However, more speed is needed so that the goals can be achieved by 2030, according to the Federal Association of Wind Energy and Mechanical Engineering Association VDMA Power Systems. Schleswig-Holstein is the clear frontrunner when it comes to new construction, and expansion continues to falter, especially in southern Germany. Lengthy planning and approval procedures as well as the lack of available space continue to represent the greatest hurdles.
Last year, the federal government decided on extensive measures to accelerate the expansion of renewable energies from wind and sun. This plays a key role in the strategy to achieve climate protection goals and become less dependent on energies such as coal and gas.
The federal government wants renewable energy sources to cover 80 percent of gross electricity consumption by 2030. Wind turbines should then contribute around 115 gigawatts of installed capacity. According to the concept, an increase of 10 gigawatts per year is necessary for this.