2017 energy statistics from danskenergi.dk reveal that wind turbines delivered the equivalent of 43.6 percent of Denmark’s total electricity consumption. This is the highest share ever recorded, overturning the previous record of 42 percent set in 2015.
The numbers from the Danish energy organization whose members support companies in delivering steady green power to the Danes, also document an impressive uptime of 99.99% at competitive prices, showing that the total wind output reached approximately 14,700 gigawatt-hours (GWh).
Thus, 2017 became a new record year for wind in Denmark. There was, however a dip in 2016, but now the trend is in the right direction again.
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Already in 2000, wind turbines in Denmark provided more than 12 percent of the country’s annual electric consumption, so Denmark has long been considered a pioneer in wind energy. The increasing ability of wind energy to cover Denmark’s electricity needs highlights that wind energy is rapidly cementing its place as a stable, inexpensive and clean alternative to fossil fuels.
Despite the fact the share of wind energy in the country’s electricity supply has been steadily increasing, the number of wind turbines has been taking the opposite turn. Today there are about 20 percent fewer wind turbines than in 2001. In 2017, about 6,100 wind turbines were in service according to the Danish Energy Authority.
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Currently, there is installed 5.3 GW of capacity in the country, both on- and offshore. Lars Aagaard, CEO of Danske Energi, says he is pleased that the Danish wind sector proves that the energy transition is well on track and adds that what is left to be done is to make sure that this valuable source is optimally used, offering clean, cheap and stable power supply. “Electricity must replace gasoline, oil and gas,” he says.
By 2020, wind energy is expected to cover 50% of Denmark’s electricity consumption. Renewable energy in total, which also includes solar power and sustainable biomass, is expected to cover 80% of electricity consumption.
2017 – New Wind Energy Record in Denmark, written by Tor Kjolberg