Denmark, a global leader in wind energy

Denmark remains at the forefront of the global renewable energy transition, with both onshore and offshore wind playing a key role in the country’s electricity generation. With ambitious expansion plans and a strong wind energy industry, Denmark continues to be a pioneer in offshore and floating wind technology.

Installed capacity and growth

• Total capacity: As of mid-2024, Denmark’s total wind energy capacity reached 7.6 GW, maintaining its position as one of Europe’s leading wind energy producers. Wind power continues to be a major contributor to Denmark’s electricity supply, with further expansion planned.
• Onshore wind: Denmark installed 55 MW of new onshore wind capacity in the first half of 2024, bringing its total onshore wind capacity to 4.97 GW. Onshore wind remains a key part of the country’s renewable energy mix, complementing offshore wind developments.
• Offshore wind: Denmark’s offshore wind sector remains one of the most advanced in the world, with 2.65 GW of installed offshore wind capacity as of mid-2024. Offshore wind plays a central role in Denmark’s renewable energy strategy, and major new projects are set to boost capacity significantly in the coming years.

Government ambitions

• 2030 target: Denmark aims to install 18 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030, reinforcing its role as a global leader in offshore wind development. This expansion is critical to meeting the country’s renewable energy and decarbonization goals.
• 2050 net-zero target: Denmark remains committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with wind power expected to supply at least 50% of the country’s total energy needs. Offshore wind, in particular, will be instrumental in this transition.
• Floating wind-specific goals: Denmark is actively developing floating wind technology, with a focus on advancing pilot projects. The government has expressed interest in installing 1-2 GW of floating wind capacity by 2030, setting the stage for large-scale floating wind deployment.

Current and upcoming projects

• Horns Rev 3 Offshore Wind Farm – A 406 MW offshore wind project in the North Sea, capable of powering more than 400,000 homes.
• Thor Offshore Wind Farm – Expected to be operational by the late 2020s, with a planned capacity of 1 GW, making it one of Denmark’s largest offshore wind farms.
• Anholt Offshore Wind Farm – A 400 MW project located in the Kattegat Strait, operational since 2013, providing electricity to approximately 400,000 homes.
• New floating wind projects – Several floating wind pilot projects are underway, including the Horns Rev Floating Wind Farm, which will test floating wind turbines in deeper waters.

Recent developments

• Offshore wind auction: Denmark held a new offshore wind auction in 2024, continuing its strategy of increasing offshore wind capacity through competitive bidding processes. These auctions aim to keep costs low while ensuring continued investment in wind energy.
• Floating wind innovation: Denmark is investing heavily in floating wind research and development, with companies like Ørsted and Vestas leading global efforts to commercialize floating wind technology.
• Technological advancements: Danish turbine manufacturers Vestas and Siemens Gamesa continue to develop larger, more efficient wind turbines, reducing costs and improving energy production for both offshore and floating wind applications.
• Grid and regulatory support: Denmark’s government remains proactive in developing grid infrastructure to support large-scale offshore wind expansion. New policies are focused on improving transmission networks and integrating wind energy into the European electricity market.

With 7.6 GW of total wind capacity as of mid-2024, including 2.65 GW of offshore wind, Denmark remains a global leader in wind energy innovation and deployment. The country’s 18 GW offshore wind target for 2030 and net-zero ambitions for 2050 reinforce its commitment to renewable energy expansion.

Through technological leadership, strong government policies, and strategic investments, Denmark is set to remain at the forefront of the global wind energy transition, contributing to a more sustainable, low-carbon future.

This information is updated in March 2025

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