Wind investments accelerated, but not enough for global climate goals

According to data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), global installed wind energy capacity reached 1,136 gigawatts by the end of 2024. During the same period, the total installed renewable energy capacity worldwide stood at 4,448 gigawatts. However, under the United Nations' target to triple global renewable capacity by 2030, wind energy needs to grow by 320 gigawatts annually—highlighting a significant shortfall in the current pace of development.

Growth Driver: Wind and Solar

In 2024, approximately 92.5% of the 585 gigawatts of newly added renewable energy capacity came from wind and solar sources, with wind energy playing a key role in this expansion.

The global target is to reach 11.2 terawatts of installed renewable capacity by 2030. Yet, several major barriers stand in the way: supply chain bottlenecks, rising costs, investment uncertainties in developing countries, slow permitting processes, and resistance at the local level.

Policy Shifts Essential for Wind Energy Growth

According to analyses by IRENA and WindEurope, the further expansion of wind energy hinges on the adoption of long-term and predictable policies. Strengthening grid infrastructure, expanding smart grid technologies, and advancing digitalization are also strongly recommended.

Key strategies include the development of next-generation turbine technologies, investment in efficiency-enhancing innovations, and stronger public-private sector collaboration. In particular, the use of green bonds and sustainable financing instruments presents valuable opportunities for scaling up wind energy deployment.

Additionally, accelerating project development processes, minimizing bureaucratic hurdles, and digitalizing permitting procedures are seen as critical steps to increase renewable energy investments worldwide.