The Global Wind Energy Council Reports Record Growth in Wind Energy Installations

The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) has released its annual report, highlighting the record-breaking year of 2024 for new wind energy capacity installations. With 117 GW of wind energy added worldwide, the report showcases significant progress in the renewable energy sector. However, it also points out disparities in deployment rates across global markets and the potential threats of trade wars and political instability.

Key Findings of the Report

In 2024, the majority of wind energy installations occurred in key mature markets such as China and Europe. While onshore installations accounted for 109 GW, offshore installations lagged behind at 8 GW. The total global wind energy capacity now stands at 1,136 GW, with 55 countries contributing to installations in 2024.

China led the way with 79,824 MW of new capacity, followed by the U.S., Germany, India, and Brazil. The report also highlights record growth in Asia-Pacific and Africa & Middle East regions, with varying installation rates across different continents.

Challenges and Recommendations

GWEC CEO Ben Backwell emphasized the importance of stable policy frameworks, improved permitting processes, and grid transmission mechanisms to support the growth of wind energy. He expressed concerns about policy instability in some markets and the need to accelerate the transition to renewable energy to meet climate targets.

Looking ahead, GWEC forecasts a compound annual growth rate of 8.8% for the wind industry, projecting an additional 981 GW of capacity by 2030. The report anticipates consecutive record years of new capacity additions, with a focus on offshore wind expansion in the coming decade.

Future Outlook

GWEC’s forecast predicts a rise in offshore wind capacity from 16 GW in 2025 to 34 GW by 2030, reflecting the industry’s shift towards offshore installations. The report underscores the need for collaborative efforts between policymakers, investors, and industry stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to clean and efficient wind power.

For more detailed insights, you can access the full Global Wind Report on GWEC’s website.