Germany and Spain still attract most of the investment. During 2006, the two countries represented 50% of the European market. However, the figures show a healthy growth in other countries too. During 2002, only 680 MW ere installed outside the "three big" (Germany, Spain and Denmark). In 2006 this figure grew to 3,755 MW.
"The figures clearly confirm that a second wave of European countries is investing in wind power. We are now witnessing the strong effect of the EU Renewable Electricity Directive passed in 2001 and, once again, urge the European Commission and the Council to introduce safeguard measures that ensure legal stability for renewable electricity in Europe. The figures released today confirm that sector-specific legislation is the most efficient way to boost renewable electricity production" said Mr Christian Kjaer, EWEA's CEO.
Germany, with 2,233 MW installed during 2006 and a yearly increase of 23% over 2005, remained leader, now with a total capacity of more than 20,000 MW. Spain was the second largest market in 2006, with 1,587 MW and France moved up to third place in 2006 (from sixth place in 2005), with 810 MW installed during the year, which represents more capacity than has previously been commissioned in the entire history of the French market.
Once again, Portugal performed well, with 694 MW of new capacity, more than in any previous year, which seems to indicate that Portugal is well positioned to achieve its 3,500 MW goal for 2010.
Last, but not least, the UK saw an impresive growth of 47% during 2006, which put the total capacity beyond the 2,000 MW level. The prospects for the country are equally good for this year, as the Government has recently approved the world's largest offshore windpark construction.
For additional information: www.ewea.org
