Spain has reached significant milestones in wind power generation, consolidating its position as one of the leaders in Europe. Last Monday, Spain generated 311 GWh, surpassing Lithuania, Germany, and Italy, thanks to the strong winds that blew earlier in the month. This allowed Spain to cover 50% of its electricity demand , highlighting the key role of wind power in the energy mix.
Impact of wind on electricity prices
The wind not only benefited the stability of the electricity grid but also consumers' wallets. Those on the regulated electricity tariff (PVPC) saw a significant reduction in their bills. According to recent data, wind power generated savings of €1,15/MWh, representing a 16% drop in prices compared to previous weeks. These types of decreases are a clear example of the positive impact that increased wind infrastructure can have, as the greater supply of renewable energy mitigates price fluctuations in the electricity market.
Spain's role in Europe
According to Red Eléctrica de España (REE), wind power generation in the country reached a record annual figure of 62.569 GWh in 2023, positioning Spain as the second largest producer of installed capacity in Europe and the fifth largest worldwide. This represents not only progress in sustainability but also an economic boost, as the wind energy sector is estimated to generate more than €5.800 billion annually, or 0,50% of the national GDP.
However, despite the positive figures, growth in the installation of new wind farms has slowed in recent years, with only 65 MW added since 2020. This contrasts with the government's strategic plan, which projected an additional 2.500 MW , highlighting the need to streamline processes to continue boosting the country's wind power capacity.
Economic contribution of wind energy
Wind energy not only has an environmental impact but also makes a significant economic contribution. Between 2012 and 2015, it is estimated that the use of wind power resulted in significant savings for consumers, reducing electricity costs by 28% . This saving translated to €227 per consumer, according to reports from the Spanish Wind Energy Association (AEE).
Tracking platforms such as #DaylyWind allow citizens and professionals in the sector to know in real time the percentage of electricity demand covered by wind energy. These platforms are key tools in the energy transition as they reflect Spain's leadership in wind energy production both on land and at sea.
Other wind energy records in Spain
Spain has witnessed several milestones in wind power generation. In addition to the 2023 figures, the production record was reached in February 2016 with 367 GWh generated in a single day, covering almost 48% of demand . This record was surpassed in 2023, when wind power generation covered 53,8% of daily demand on October 26, demonstrating the continued potential of the country's wind energy sector.
Development of offshore wind energy
The next big step for Spain is the development of offshore wind energy . In 2023 , the government approved a plan to promote this technology through the Maritime Spatial Planning Plan (POEM) . Offshore wind energy has enormous potential, especially in areas like Galicia, Catalonia, and the Canary Islands, where wind farms capable of generating between 1 and 3 GW could be installed before 2030.
Unlike other European countries, offshore wind energy in Spain faces unique challenges due to the depth of its waters. Nevertheless, Spain is leading the development of floating solutions that harness the potential of offshore winds. To date, seven floating solutions created by Spanish companies have been identified, placing Spain at the forefront of research and development in this technology.
The growth of offshore wind energy is also considered key to the creation of skilled jobs. The EEA forecasts that this sector alone could generate up to 7.500 new jobs by 2030, contributing not only to energy sustainability but also to the local economy.
The progress of wind energy in Spain, both onshore and offshore, is one of the fundamental pillars for the country's energy transition. The installed capacity, combined with efforts in additional infrastructure and research into technological solutions, ensures that Spain remains a European and world leader in the generation of renewable energy.