Overview
- WindEurope estimates only 17–18 GW of wind capacity was added across Europe in 2025, well below the pace needed for EU 2030 renewables goals.
- Germany logged one of its strongest onshore years with 958 new turbines totaling about 5.2 GW, the second‑best annual expansion on record.
- Authorities in Germany approved roughly 20.7 GW of onshore capacity in 2025, yet projects typically take more than two years to move from approval to operation.
- Regional gaps persisted: Schleswig‑Holstein added 143 turbines (789.9 MW) and has the highest installation density, while Thuringia (13 turbines, 71.6 MW) and Bavaria saw limited builds despite a surge to 774 permit applications in Bavaria through November.
- Onshore wind generation in Germany slipped about 5% to 106.5 TWh due to a wind‑poor spring but still supplied roughly 24% of power, as industry groups urge faster permitting, grid expansion and contract‑for‑difference support, warning the 84 GW 2026 capacity target is at risk with around 68 GW installed by end‑2025.