- European leaders push to install 20,000 offshore wind turbines by 2050 to counter China’s growing dominance in global wind energy production.
- Denmark, a leader in offshore wind energy, urges Europe to accelerate wind turbine manufacturing as Chinese companies now control 82% of global turbine orders.
Leaders from eight North Sea-bordering nations gathered in Denmark on Thursday, October 24, to strengthen their commitment to offshore wind energy. Faced with growing competition from Chinese manufacturers, the summit focused on Europe’s plan to install 20,000 offshore wind turbines by 2050, aiming to expand energy capacity and maintain global leadership.
China’s dominance weighs heavily on Europe. According to renewable energy consultancy Wood Mackenzie, Chinese companies now control 82% of global wind turbine orders, alarming European officials.
“We must choose the right path for the energy transition,” said Danish Energy Minister Lars Aagaard during the summit.
Denmark has led the development of offshore wind energy for decades. The country launched its first offshore wind farm in 1991, generating over 40% of its electricity from wind. Odense, the summit’s location, exemplifies Europe’s progress in wind energy. Since 2011, this port has produced vital wind turbine components for European and international markets.
“More than a thousand turbines have come out of here, not just for Europe but also for markets like the Philippines and the US,” said Carsten Aa, director of the Odense port. Vestas, a Danish wind energy giant, now operates at the former shipyard, producing nacelles, masts, and other essential turbine parts.
Despite these strides, Europe needs to accelerate wind turbine production to keep pace with China’s rapid advancements. “We’ve transformed from an outdated industrial area into a high-tech facility,” Aa emphasised, reflecting on Odense’s recent developments.
Odense’s port has expanded by 18% over the past two years, driving the region’s push to meet growing demand. European leaders acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in the region’s potential to meet its 2050 targets.
Other European ports are also preparing for offshore wind expansion. In France, the port of Nantes Saint-Nazaire builds a new platform to support future wind farms. These projects demonstrate Europe’s determination to stay competitive in offshore wind energy despite China’s growing threat.
The competition with China grows fierce, but Europe’s leaders remain committed to maintaining the continent’s leadership. They stressed the importance of accelerating wind turbine production and increasing political will to reach their goals.
As Europe quickens its efforts in offshore wind energy, the race to secure energy independence and global influence intensifies. With China dominating the international market, Europe must act swiftly to strengthen its position and protect its energy future. The summit highlighted the urgency for Europe to continue its push, ensuring it stays competitive despite growing Chinese dominance.