Germany expands offshore wind capacity as industry pushes for policy changes

• 21 July 2026
• Government, Windfarms
• BMO

BMO has released a statement on the progress of the German wind industry in the first half of 2026. It outlines increases in capacity and potential regulation changes.

Germany has seen strong growth in the first half of this year, resulting in an installed capacity of 10.8 GW.

An additional 84 turbines, with a combined capacity of 1.077 MW, were connected to the grid, contributing to Germany’s goal of achieving net zero by 2045.

The second half of 2026 is expected to continue this momentum, with 22 more turbines, representing 323 MW of capacity, currently under construction and an additional 2.6 GW of capacity in the pipeline following Final Investment Decisions.

Despite steady progress, many stakeholders are calling for changes to wind energy legislation, with clearer frameworks and stronger project pipeline planning needed to reflect current market conditions following the lack of bids in the August 2025 auction.

Further challenges have emerged, with some projects being delayed due to increased risk and changing market conditions. As a result, proposed reforms include a review of the criteria for a buyback option.

These regulatory changes aim to protect developers, manufacturers, suppliers, and investors, providing greater confidence to invest in and contribute to future projects.

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