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Wind Europe calls for accelerated growth to achieve ambitious targets

By: Chloe Emanuel 07/05/2024 Wind Europe

General Turbines Windfarms

Europe, renowned for its commitment to renewable energy, is aiming to substantially increase its reliance on wind power in the coming years, with the European Union setting ambitious targets for the industry.

Currently, wind energy accounts for 20% of the electricity consumed across Europe, states Wind Europe. However, the EU has set its sights on raising this figure to 35% by 2030 and over half by 2050. This push towards wind energy is not only driven by environmental concerns but also economic and strategic motives.

One of the key advantages of wind energy is its cost-effectiveness. As the wind energy infrastructure expands, the reliance on energy imports decreases, thereby enhancing energy security. Moreover, with wind turbines predominantly manufactured within Europe, the industry is viewed as strategic, further bolstering national security.

Looking ahead to 2030, the European wind industry envisions significant benefits from this transition. It is projected to generate 500,000 jobs, up from the current 300,000, while simultaneously saving 190 billion cubic meters of fossil fuel imports annually. In terms of environmental impact, the switch to wind energy is estimated to reduce CO2 emissions by 262 million tonnes per year and contribute €49 billion to the EU's GDP.

To realise these goals, the Wind Europe is urging the EU to take decisive action in several key areas:

Investment in Electricity Grids: There is a call for substantial investment in electricity grids, facilitated by better planning and increased private finance, leveraged by institutions like the European Investment Bank.

Permitting Acceleration: The industry advocates for the implementation of new EU rules aimed at expediting the permitting process for renewables, grids, and related infrastructure. This includes tighter deadlines, a streamlined one-stop-shop approach, and digitalisation of procedures.

Support for Industrial Electrification: Heavy industries such as steel, cement, and chemicals play a crucial role in supporting wind turbine production and are integral to the economy. Therefore, there is a need for support to help these industries decarbonise through financial incentives and flexible state aid.

Ensuring Fair Competition: It is essential to maintain a level playing field for Europe's clean tech manufacturing sector, particularly in the wind turbine market. This involves utilising existing EU tools to enforce fair competition standards, including minimum requirements for cyber and data security, responsible business practices, and supply chain resilience.

Scale-Up Innovation: There is a plea to refocus research and innovation policies towards scaling up new technologies in the wind energy sector. Streamlining and expediting EU funding processes are seen as vital steps in accelerating the industrialisation and deployment of innovative solutions.

With concerted efforts and collaboration between industry stakeholders and policy makers, Wind Europe believes it can play a pivotal role in driving Europe towards a greener, more sustainable energy future.

For more information about offshore wind farm projects across the globe, click here.

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Wind Europe calls for accelerated growth to achieve ambitious targets

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