GWEC: Asia-Pacific to Lead as Global Wind Capacity Heads Toward 2 TW by 2030 - Mercomindia.com
Published February 04, 2026
GWEC Forecasts Asia-Pacific to Lead as Global Wind Capacity Approaches 2 TW by 2030
The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) has released its latest report, projecting that the total global wind energy capacity will reach nearly 2 terawatts (TW) by the year 2030. This significant milestone is expected to be driven primarily by the Asia-Pacific region, which is poised to become the leading contributor to global wind energy expansion.
According to the GWEC's report, titled "Global Wind Report: Annual Market Update 2023," the global wind capacity is anticipated to grow from 1,100 gigawatts (GW) in 2022 to approximately 2,000 GW by the end of the decade. The report highlights that the Asia-Pacific region will account for a substantial portion of this growth, with countries such as China and India leading the way in wind energy development.
Asia-Pacific's Dominance in Wind Energy
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to add more than 1,000 GW of new wind capacity between now and 2030. China remains the largest market for wind energy globally, with ambitious targets to increase its renewable energy capacity. The country has set a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, which is driving significant investments in wind power.
India is also emerging as a key player in the wind energy sector, with the government aiming to achieve 60 GW of installed wind capacity by 2022. This target was part of a broader objective to reach 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by the same year. As of 2023, India has made substantial progress towards this goal, further solidifying its position in the global wind energy market.
Global Wind Capacity Growth Trends
The GWEC report indicates that global wind capacity installations reached 93 GW in 2022, marking a 9% increase compared to the previous year. This growth was fueled by a combination of factors, including supportive government policies, technological advancements, and increasing demand for clean energy sources.
In terms of market distribution, Europe accounted for 23% of the new installations, while North America contributed 12%. The report emphasizes that while traditional markets continue to grow, emerging markets in the Asia-Pacific region are expected to drive the majority of future installations.
Technological Advancements Driving Growth
Technological innovations in wind turbine design and efficiency have played a crucial role in the industry's growth. The report highlights that advancements in turbine size and capacity have enabled wind farms to generate more electricity with fewer installations. This trend is particularly evident in offshore wind projects, where larger turbines are capable of harnessing stronger and more consistent wind resources.
The GWEC also notes that the cost of wind energy has decreased significantly over the past decade, making it one of the most competitive sources of electricity generation. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for onshore wind projects has dropped by 70% since 2010, while offshore wind costs have fallen by 50% during the same period.
Policy Support and Investment Needs
To achieve the ambitious targets outlined in the report, the GWEC emphasizes the need for robust policy frameworks and increased investment in wind energy infrastructure. Governments around the world must implement supportive policies that encourage the development of renewable energy projects, including streamlined permitting processes and financial incentives.
The report also highlights the importance of international cooperation in driving wind energy deployment. Collaborative efforts among countries can facilitate knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and investment in research and development, ultimately accelerating the transition to a low-carbon energy future.
Challenges Facing the Wind Energy Sector
Despite the positive outlook for wind energy growth, the GWEC report identifies several challenges that could hinder progress. Supply chain disruptions, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, have impacted the availability of key components for wind turbines. Additionally, geopolitical tensions and trade disputes could pose risks to the global wind energy market.
Furthermore, the report underscores the need for enhanced grid infrastructure to accommodate the growing share of wind energy in electricity generation. Upgrading transmission networks and integrating renewable energy sources into existing grids will be essential to ensure reliability and stability as wind capacity expands.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the GWEC projects that the wind energy sector will continue to evolve, with increasing investments in both onshore and offshore projects. The report anticipates that by 2030, offshore wind capacity could reach 400 GW, driven by technological advancements and favorable policies.
In conclusion, the GWEC's report underscores the pivotal role of the Asia-Pacific region in the global wind energy landscape. With significant growth expected in countries like China and India, the region is set to lead the charge toward achieving a global wind capacity of 2 TW by 2030. As the world transitions to a more sustainable energy future, the wind energy sector will be instrumental in meeting the growing demand for clean, renewable power.
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