Current Context: Recently, the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) reported a record addition of 117 GW in wind energy capacity in 2024, bringing the total global capacity to 1,136 GW. However, challenges such as policy instability, permitting delays, and inadequate grid infrastructure threaten future growth.
Key Highlights:
- Record Installations: 117 GW added globally in 2024, marking the highest annual increase to date.
- Total Capacity: Global wind energy capacity reached 1,136 GW by the end of 2024.
- Top Contributor: China (79.8 GW); USA, Germany, and Brazil also performed strongly.
- Regional Growth: Africa (107%), Asia-Pacific (7%); decline in North America, Latin America, Europe.
- Offshore Wind: 56.3 GW awarded; Europe led with 23.2 GW; South Korea, Taiwan emerging.
- Future Projections:
- GWEC forecasts nearly 1 TW of additional installations by 2030.
- To meet climate targets, annual installations need to reach approximately 320 GW by the end of the decade.