Europe wind energy to increase by 13% in 2010

EU Infrastructure has previously reported that Europe could potentially see a 'wind energy race' in the aftermath of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill and this seems to be supported by a report from the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA).

According to the EWEA's report, the supply of wind energy produced in Europe is expected to increase by 13 percent over the rest of the year. This increase would take Europe wind energy to almost 85GW.

In a statement, Christian Kjaer, chief executive of EWEA said, "We predict another strong year for wind turbine installations in Europe, repeating the high level achieved in 2009."

"What is encouraging is that, unlike in 2009, the 2010 results consist of orders placed after the start of the financial crisis. This shows continued and strong investor confidence in the technology."

With projects such as Gwynt y Mor being announced in Wales, the increase will come as no surprise to those in the industry, especially with France and Italy each installing about 1GW this year alone.

There is also expected to be an increase in offshore wind power, with up to 1GW of new capacity expected to be installed during the year compared to 577MW installed in 2009.

Not all European countries are increasing their wind output however. Spain is reportedly reducing the number of wind installations, but have been buoyed by new member states such as Romania and Bulgaria, as well as increased investment in the likes of the UK.

Kjaer added that while it is too early to say whether Europe's wind energy will increase for a third year running, the continent will see more wind energy capacity installed than any other electricity generating technology. Germany is expected to be the largest market this year, closely followed by the UK.

Relevant articles:

Gwynt y Mor - Bringing wind energy to Wales | Maintenance strategies of wind turbines | Are Europe's wind turbines in danger of collapsing?

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