The cumulative electricity generated by wind has soared to 2,100 terawatts per hour (TWh). With that, wind power has effectively cemented its foothold as the frontrunner in the race toward net zero, second only to the mighty hydropower.
Bear in mind, though. Such a feat is far from the result of a collective global effort where each country has contributed equally. Rather, the landscape of global wind energy is a patchwork of contributions, with select few producers dominating the scene.
To that end, seven largest producers account for more than three-quarters of global wind power capacity. Notably, two powerhouses, China and the United States, command over half the capacity.
Wind Power by Country
Let's delve into a detailed breakdown of wind power production, unveiling the distinct roles these countries play in shaping the future of clean energy.
China (278 GW)
China asserts itself as a formidable presence in the realm of renewable energy.
As the proud host of the world's largest onshore wind farm, China doesn't hold back when it comes to investing billions of dollars each year to erect and sustain wind turbines that dot its vast landscape.
The wind energy revolution doesn't stop on land; it extends far beyond the shoreline. With 26 GW of offshore wind energy installed, China leads the way both on terra firma and over the open waters.
United States (146 GW)
Closing in on the heels of the People's Republic is the States, a formidable contender in the race toward clean energy transition.
Within the 50 states, Texas emerges as the frontrunner, with Iowa, Missouri, and Wyoming hot on its tails, vying for a piece of the wind energy pie.
While the United States primarily harnesses the wind's power through onshore wind farms, clean energy bills like the Inflation Reduction Act have set the stage for a dramatic shift.
Namely, in the coming decades, offshore wind generation is projected to play a pivotal role, potentially addressing up to a quarter of the nation's energy needs.
The winds of change are blowing strong across the Land of Liberty.
Germany (66 GW)
Germany, with its abundance of engineering prowess, stands tall as the leading wind energy producer in all of Europe.
The strong presence of wind energy in Germany is partly a result of robust governmental support. With a steadfast policy aimed at producing all its electricity from carbon-free sources by 2035, Germany is on a journey to generate a grand total of 140 GW through wind power, with a split between 110 GW onshore and 30 GW offshore.
India (44 GW)
When it comes to generating energy, landmass plays a pivotal role. The more real estate to work with, the greater the potential for energy production.
That said, India secures its place as the fourth-largest wind energy producer on our list. The country boasts ample space to accommodate the vastness of wind energy infrastructure. It’s also worth noting that India is home to the third and fourth largest onshore wind farms in the world.
The only hurdle in India's wind energy journey has been its limited offshore capacity. But such challenge too remains a matter of time, particularly with the government getting ready to roll out a series of offshore projects. With ambitious plans to develop 30 GW of installed capacity over the coming decade, India's future in wind energy looks brighter than ever.
Spain (28 GW)
The numbers pretty much speak for themselves - over 2,000 turbines spread across about 1,000 wind farms dot the Spanish landscape. These figures paint a clear picture as to how one-fifth of the country’s electricity stems from wind.
What makes this even more impressive is that Spain isn’t renowned for having the sturdiest of economies yet stands as a shining example of wind power generation.
Similar to India, Spain relies entirely on onshore wind power. However, under the leadership of Iberdrola, it’s gearing up to develop commercial-scale offshore wind farms along its coasts.
Brazil (21 GW)
When we think of Latin America, renewable energy might not be the first thing that springs to mind. It's not a dig at our friends south of the equator. They’ve just got their hands full with other pressing issues - think extreme poverty and that pesky corruption thing. Clean energy is a noble goal, but there are bigger fish to fry, right?
Well, surprise, surprise. One of the contenders for the top five spots on the list is none other than Brazil. This powerhouse has been making waves on the energy scene, and the same holds true for wind power.
Brazil's wind energy potential is like a hidden gem waiting to shine. They've got ambitious plans to roll out over 100 GW of offshore wind capacity in the coming decade.
In a region where clean energy isn't always the immediate headliner, Brazil is stepping up to the stage, ready to steal the show.