Germany Leads New Wind Power Installations in Europe

European Wind Power Installation Status in First Half of 2025 According to a survey released by WindEurope on September 2, new wind power installations across Europe in the first half of 2025 generated 6.8 gigawatts (GW) of capacity. Germany accounted for the largest share with 2.2 GW of new generation capacity, playing a leading role. New wind turbine orders showed steady growth with approximately 19% increase compared to the same period last year. Investment Situation and Challenges for 2030 Targets Final investment decisions for new wind power installations in the first half of 2025 reached 34 billion euros, already exceeding the full-year 2024 investment amount (32.6 billion euros). However, to achieve the EU's target of raising the renewable energy ratio to 42.5% by 2030, current wind power generation capacity of 236 GW needs to be increased to 425 GW. Permit Processing Challenges and National Responses Total generation capacity from planned wind power installations by 2030 is estimated at approximately 344 GW, showing a gap with the target. Many EU countries show delays in legislative development, despite the May 21, 2025 deadline for domestic implementation of the revised Renewable Energy Directive (RED III). Germany's Success Factors and Policy Effects Germany completed RED III domestic implementation on July 11, 2025, and has promoted simplification of renewable energy project permits through the former Scholz government's "Easter Package." The German Federal Wind Energy Association analyzes that Germany's success is supported by steady policy implementation of EU directives, permit process simplification, government land designation, and strong industry presence.