Wind energy is experiencing significant global expansion, with technological advancements and increased investments driving its growth. In 2024, global wind capacity increased by 11%, reaching 1,136 gigawatts (GW). China led in new and cumulative capacity, followed by the United States and Germany. The U.S. wind industry installed 6,474 megawatts (MW) of new land-based wind capacity in 2023, bringing the cumulative total to nearly 150,500 MW. This expansion is supported by federal incentives like the residential renewable energy tax credit, which reduces installation costs for small wind systems. css.umich.edu
Technological innovations are also contributing to wind energy's growth. Turbines are becoming larger and more efficient, with the average onshore turbine size in the U.S. reaching 3.4 MW in 2023, up 5% from 2022. This increase in size and capacity allows for greater energy production and improved efficiency. Additionally, the development of floating wind farms is opening up new areas for wind energy generation, particularly in deeper offshore locations. For example, Ocean Winds, a joint venture between EDP Renewables and Engie, secured rights to develop a 1.5-gigawatt floating wind farm in the Celtic Sea, off the coasts of Wales and South West England. css.umich.edu
Key Takeaways
- Global wind capacity increased by 11% in 2024, reaching 1,136 GW.
- The U.S. installed 6,474 MW of new land-based wind capacity in 2023.
- Average onshore turbine size in the U.S. reached 3.4 MW in 2023.
- Floating wind farms are expanding wind energy generation into deeper offshore areas.
- Ocean Winds secured rights to develop a 1.5-GW floating wind farm in the Celtic Sea.