In a decisive move to strengthen Europe’s renewable energy sector, eight North Sea bordering countries convened in Denmark on Thursday to solidify commitments for a significant expansion of offshore wind power. Denmark, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Norway, and Ireland, along with the European Commission, are expected to finalize an ambitious agreement to install 20,000 wind turbines in the North Sea by 2050.
This large-scale initiative comes as European wind power faces growing competition from China, which now commands 82 percent of new wind power orders, according to Wood Mackenzie analysts.
“The EU cannot lose momentum, we need to ensure that we choose the right path,” urged Lars Aagaard, Denmark’s energy minister, emphasizing the need for Europe to maintain its leadership in the sector.
Denmark, a pioneer in wind energy since it opened its first wind farm in 1991, now generates more than 40 percent of its electricity from wind power. At the meeting held in the port city of Odense, discussions also centered on how Europe can bolster its production to counter Chinese dominance.
Odense: A Hub for Offshore Wind Power
In Odense, which has transformed from a historic shipbuilding center into a cutting-edge wind energy hub, Carsten Aa, the port director, highlighted the port’s critical role in assembling turbines for global markets, including Europe, the United States, and the Philippines.
“We are world-leading at the moment, but the Chinese are knocking on our front door,” said Aa, underscoring the urgent need for European seaports to ramp up production to meet political and environmental goals.
Since 2011, when the first turbine nacelle (the casing housing turbine components) was built by Vestas at the former Lindo shipyard, the site has assembled over 1,500 offshore wind turbines. Vestas now produces crucial parts such as nacelles, masts, and foundations at the port, which has grown by 18 percent in the last two years and employs over 3,200 workers.
Europe’s Push to Stay Competitive
European ports like Nantes Saint-Nazaire in France are also pushing forward with similar projects to develop platforms for future offshore wind farms. Despite the competitive pressure, Europe remains determined to lead the global renewable energy transition.
“If we shall fulfil all the political ambitions, we need to see even more production in European seaports,” Aa insisted, while expressing hope that Odense will lead the charge against Chinese competition.
As Europe continues to develop and expand its wind power capabilities, the gathering in Denmark signals a united commitment to achieving climate goals while reinforcing the continent’s renewable energy independence.
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