The wind energy sector experienced an unprecedented surge in 2023, with an impressive 117 gigawatts (GW) of new wind capacity installed globally. This figure marks the industry’s most productive year, outstripping the previous year’s installations by a staggering 50%.
Insights from the Global Wind Report 2024
The remarkable findings unveiled in the Global Wind Report 2024 highlight a wave of energy revolution sweeping across the globe. According to the report presented by the Global Wind Energy Council, this expansion wasn’t uniform, with some regions such as Europe and North America not contributing to the growth this year.
A Worldwide Effort
Illustrating the global commitment to clean energy, records from the year reveal that 54 nations across various continents embraced new wind power projects. The massive investments made by countries like China, the United States, Brazil, Germany, and India placed them among the top five markets energizing the industry.
China’s Dominance in Wind Energy
China’s monumental achievement of commissioning 75 GW new installations, covering nearly two-thirds of the global market, propelled the Asia-Pacific region to more than double its wind capacity compared to the year before.
Spotlight on Latin America and Africa & Middle East
Trailing behind, Brazil made an impressive stride in wind power generation by installing 4.8 GW, landing it the third-largest global spot and contributing to Latin America’s record 21% growth compared to the previous year. The regions of Africa & the Middle East were not left behind, boasting a significant 182% year-over-year increase in wind installations.
Milestone Achievements and Future Outlook
Reflecting on these advancements, the cumulative global wind power capacity crossed the notable threshold of 1 terawatt (TW) in 2023, reaching 1,021 GW after growing 13% from the previous year. Onshore wind had an especially remarkable year, exceeding the 100 GW mark for the first time with a 54% increase from the prior year. Meanwhile, offshore wind celebrated its second-best year with 10.8 GW installed.
In light of these advancements, the Global Wind Energy Council optimistically revised its growth forecasts upward by 10% for the period 2024-2030, anticipating a new era of expedited growth influenced by political engagement in renewable energy.
Comments From the GWEC CEO
GWEC CEO Ben Backwell acknowledged the wind industry’s growth and spoke about the necessity for further action:
“While we revel in the success of this record-setting year for wind power installations, it’s important to recognize that these achievements are only a fraction of what is required. We need an even greater collective effort from policy makers, the industry, and other stakeholders to take part in the 3X pathway to achieve net zero targets. While we witness substantial contributions from countries like China, the US, Brazil, and Germany, a broader participation is imperative to eliminate barriers and strengthen market frameworks, allowing wind power to become even more widespread.
