The WindEurope association has launched a new publication on the impact of the coronavirus on wind energy, in particular with regard to new facilities, project schedules, financing and production in the first half of 2020.
The association notes that although there have been disruptions in the last month, facility levels have been similar to previous years and funding in Europe has reached 14.3 billion. euro. Therefore, he estimates that the wind industry is able to contribute to a green economic recovery under the 750 billion plan. of the EU, of which 30% will focus on green investments.
As WindEurope’s chief policy officer, Pierre Tardio, put it, “the semester was not normal. Europe has unprecedentedly implemented crisis measures that have affected all economic sectors, but winds have proved resilient. Wind turbines have produced quantities. “Governments have held competitive auctions and the industry has continued to build new parks following strict health and safety protocols.”
Europe installed 5.1 gigawatts per semester, of which 3.9 onshore and 1.2 offshore wind. The onshore facilities were slightly above the average of the last three years (3.7 gigawatts), but the offshore ones were slightly lower (1.5 gigawatts). Germany had the most land additions with 591 megawatts, followed by France (494 megawatts) and Spain (446 megawatts). Outside the EU, Britain had 507 megawatts, Russia 450 megawatts and Turkey 232 megawatts.
For the whole year, the previous estimate for 17.7 gigawatts of facilities is considered impossible and the link expects a number reduced by 20%.
The coronavirus affected electricity demand during the semester, which fell by up to 25% during the worst period. In this context, the wind farms produced 241 terawatt hours, covering 17% of European needs.
Finally, in terms of financing, the economic effects of the pandemic have increased debt costs in the short term and put pressure on liquidity in the countries of Eastern and Southern Europe. Despite the difficult environment, a record funding of 14.3 billion was recorded during the first half of the year. euros for new wind farms. Offshore wind, in particular, attracted investments of 11 billion. from them.
