Europe is preparing for a major expansion of its wind energy sector, though significant challenges remain. By 2030, total installed capacity is expected to reach 441 GW, an increase of 178 GW compared to current levels. EU-27 member states are projected to add 133 GW, bringing their combined capacity to 344 GW.
By mid-2025, the continent already operated 291 GW of wind power, with 254 GW onshore and 37 GW offshore. Forecasts indicate that by the end of the decade, onshore installations will reach 361 GW, while offshore projects are expected to grow to 80 GW. Within the EU-27, projections suggest 298 GW onshore and 46 GW offshore.
Investment in the sector remains strong. In the first half of 2025, funding reached 34 billion euros, already higher than the total for all of 2024. However, deployment still lags behind targets due to various barriers.
One of the main issues is the permitting process, which is often slow and inconsistent across countries. Electricity networks are also expanding too slowly, limiting their ability to absorb new renewable capacity. Slow electrification of other sectors further reduces demand growth, lowering the pressure for faster wind deployment. Unclear auction frameworks and support mechanisms add to investor uncertainty and slow project timelines.
Offshore wind faces even tougher challenges, including supply chain bottlenecks, limited port infrastructure for oversized components, and a shortage of specialized installation vessels.
Despite these obstacles, onshore wind will remain the backbone of Europe’s renewable energy expansion. With the largest share of planned projects, it is set to account for most of the added capacity by 2030, cementing its role in the continent’s energy transition.
