Wind energy currently accounts for 20% of the electricity consumed in Europe. The EU aims to increase this to 35% by 2030 and over half by 2050. By 2030, wind energy is projected to provide 500,000 jobs in Europe, up from the current 300,000 jobs.
It is anticipated to save 190 billion cubic meters of fossil fuel imports annually and reduce emissions by 262 million tonnes of CO2 every year. Furthermore, wind energy is estimated to contribute €49 billion to the EU’s GDP. To ensure these targets are met, the European wind industry is calling on the EU to:
- Invest massively in electricity grids: This involves better top-down planning and increased private finance, supported by the European Investment Bank.
- Accelerate the permitting of renewables, grids, and industry: Implementation of the new EU rules for wind energy permitting, including tighter deadlines, a one-stop-shop, overriding public interest considerations, and digital processes.
- Help heavy industry electrify: Industries such as steel, cement, and chemicals, which are crucial for building wind turbines and the economy, need support for decarbonisation through finance, flexible state aid, and an Electrification Action Plan aiming for 35% electricity in the energy mix by 2030 (up from 23% today).
- Ensure a level playing field for Europe’s clean tech manufacturing: Utilise existing EU tools to ensure fair competition in the wind turbine market. Set clear minimum standards on cyber and data security, responsible business conduct, and supply chain resilience.
- Focus innovation on scale-up: Redirect research and innovation policies to support the industrialisation and scaling up of new technologies. Simplify and accelerate EU funding processes to facilitate this.
