50% increase year over year in wind power installations
The Global Wind Report for 2023 indicates a significant surge in wind power installations worldwide, marking a record year with 117 gigawatts of new capacity, a 50% increase from the previous year. This growth is applauded for its contribution to combatting climate change. However, the report emphasizes the need for accelerated expansion to meet ambitious climate targets, aiming for at least 320 gigawatts annually by 2030.
GWEC CEO Ben Backwell acknowledges the achievement but underscores the necessity for further growth. George Aluru, CEO of Kenya's Electricity Sector Association, highlights wind's growing recognition for its role in sustainable development and climate mitigation.
With renewable energy increasingly vital in combating climate change, wind power's affordability and effectiveness are recognized globally. The cumulative wind power capacity now stands at 1,021 gigawatts, demonstrating significant progress.
Christian Andresen of SINTEF Energy Research notes the industry's momentum, driven by investments and maturity, suggesting a promising trajectory toward future growth. This acceleration signals progress towards climate targets, essential for transitioning to a net-zero emission society.
However, challenges such as high upfront costs, supply chain limitations, and grid integration issues persist for utility size wind turbines. Erin Baker, a professor at the University of Massachusetts, highlights the need for innovation to address these challenges. Despite obstacles, the expanding wind energy sector suggests growing support and the establishment of crucial supply chains, promising cost reductions and technological advancements in the future.
Innovations like the usage of microgeneration (Electricity generation at the point of consumption) wind turbines eliminates high upfront costs and supply chain limitations while also solving grid integration issues as it can be installed off grid. The Anorra Microgeneration turbine is perfect for those who want to join the global increase in wind power installations on a smaller scale to power their rural dwellings and be less dependent on the electrical grid and solar panels.