Denmark leads European offshore wind power in 2009

At the end of 2009, Denmark had installed a total 305 offshore wind turbines, capturing the first place in Europe, followed by the UK with 287 wind turbines.

In addition to the already started offshore wind farm projects, there are approved plans for a further 16,000 MW new wind energy offshore capacity in Europe. Germany accounts for some 52% of all future projects, while Denmark stands for 3%.

"In order to retain its favourable position, the Danish wind turbine industry needs a political decision regarding the long-term goals for the expansion by 2020 as well as developed infrastructure," Jan Hylleberg, director of the Danish Wind Industry Association, said.

The association expects the offshore market in Europe to grow by 75% on the year to some 1,000 MW in 2010 and to account for some 10% of the continent’s total wind power capacity.