
The Netherlands plays a leading role in the energy transition through large-scale investments in wind energy. The Dutch wind energy sector is therefore growing strongly, both on land and at sea. Offshore wind energy is essential for the future energy supply and sustainability of the Netherlands. Despite challenges such as ecological effects and rising costs, the sector continues to innovate and grow. With ambitious targets for 2030 and 2050, wind energy is a pillar of the Dutch sustainability strategy. This is evident from the IEA Wind Annual Report 2023 on the Netherlands.
The numbers
The share of renewable energy sources in national electricity demand has increased from 43% in 2022 to 52% in 2023. Wind energy jumped from a share of 20% to 27%. Total installed capacity reached 10.8 GW, of which 4 GW is offshore. This share is expected to increase significantly.
In 2023, the offshore wind farms HKZ and HKW will be commissioned with 2.3 GW. For offshore, the target is to achieve a capacity of 21 GW by 2030, which corresponds to an annual production of 49 TWh. By 2050, the Netherlands must generate 70 GW of offshore wind energy.
Onshore capacity reached 6.8 GW at the end of 2023, thanks to growth of 770 MW last year, although new projects are hampered by stricter environmental regulations. Onshore wind policy has shifted to regional decision-making. The Netherlands is divided into 30 energy regions where municipalities and water boards make plans together. A key focus is on involving local communities in wind projects, with the aim of giving them 50% ownership of new projects.
Challenges and innovations
Realising 21 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 requires solutions to shortages of qualified personnel, rising costs and long delivery times of materials. Innovations such as larger turbines and new installation techniques play a crucial role in achieving these goals.
To limit the effects on the environment and ecology, new techniques are being tested. For example, experiments are being conducted with painting blades to reduce bird collisions and the restoration of seabeds is being promoted.
Advanced technologies are being developed, such as drones for maintenance and sensors for continuous monitoring of wind turbines. This contributes to more efficient and sustainable wind farms.
The government continues to invest in research and development, with subsidy programs such as SDE++ and HER+.
About the report
The Wind Technology Collaboration Programme is an international collaboration that shares information and research to promote research, development and deployment of wind energy in its member countries. The consortium is part of the International Energy Agency (IEA).
The IEA Wind Annual Report provides a detailed overview of the latest developments in the deployment of wind energy. an initiative of WindEurope and the European Commission. The report on the Netherlands was written by Ruud Oerlemans of RVO.
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