The global wind energy sector installed 117 GW of new capacity in 2024, according to the latest Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) report. This marks an 11% increase over the previous year, raising the total global wind power capacity to 1.1 TW. Despite these milestones, the GWEC cautions that the current growth trajectory falls short of the targets outlined during COP28, which aim to triple global renewable energy capacity by 2030.
In 2024, renewable energy accounted for 90% of all new global energy installations, with wind energy contributing 20%. Onshore wind experienced a strong year, reaching a record-high 109 GW of new capacity. In contrast, offshore wind installations declined to 8 GW, the lowest level since 2021.
The expansion of wind energy remains regionally concentrated:
While Latin America and the Middle East lost market share, Africa managed to double its wind capacity compared to the previous year, albeit from a low base.
The top five countries for new installations in 2024 were:
These countries collectively accounted for 81% of global new capacity. In terms of total cumulative capacity, Brazil surpassed Spain to claim the fifth position.
Despite the positive momentum, the GWEC report highlights four major challenges that could jeopardize achieving climate goals:
To address these challenges, the GWEC calls for coordinated efforts between governments and the private sector. Key actions include:
Recent reforms in markets such as the United Kingdom, Germany, South Africa, Brazil, and across the Asia-Pacific region demonstrate growing political commitment. However, the GWEC notes that permitting processes remain slow, investors are cautious in a volatile macroeconomic environment, and misinformation campaigns continue to pose risks.
Jonathan Cole, Chair of the GWEC, emphasized the strategic importance of wind energy for long-term energy security and economic development, urging stakeholders to focus on the sector's enduring value and mission.
For 2025, the GWEC plans new initiatives aimed at boosting global wind energy deployment. The ultimate goal: achieving annual new installations of 320 GW by 2030 — more than twice the current rate.
As the world strives for a clean energy future, accelerating wind power development will be crucial to realizing climate ambitions and ensuring a resilient, sustainable energy system.