WindEurope – Grid Access Challenges for wind farms in Europe

The main challenge to deploying renewables at scale in Europe is securing access to the electricity grid. Currently, over 500 GW of wind capacity in several countries is awaiting grid connection assessment, with grid saturation and inefficient permitting procedures being major obstacles. Curtailment, where wind farms are unable to export their full generation due to grid congestion, also hinders grid access. WindEurope conducted a survey to gather information on grid connection and curtailment practices across Europe and identified areas for improvement. Recommendations include anticipatory planning of the grid, moving away from first come, first served grid access, implementing EU legislation, transparent rules on congestion management and curtailment compensation, fair sharing of grid costs, and enabling grid connection for co-located renewables. The report highlights inefficiencies and best practices in Europe and provides recommendations for national authorities to improve grid access for wind farms. EU guidance is essential for implementing these measures effectively.