ETIPWind proposes a European Fund to relaunch innovation and competitiveness in the wind sector

The European Technology and Innovation Platform on Wind (ETIPWind) calls on EU institutions to adopt a concrete strategy to strengthen the wind industry through targeted investments in research and innovation.

During WindEurope in Copenhagen, a proposal was presented to establish a European Wind Competitiveness Fund, with the aim of supporting the energy transition and ensuring European technological leadership in renewables.

A strategic industry for Europe: between results and emerging critical issues

Wind energy is now one of the pillars of the European energy mix . With over 370,000 employees and an economic impact of over 52 billion euros per year, the sector confirms itself as a strategic asset for the Union.

In fact, 99% of the turbines installed on the continent are produced domestically, demonstrating the strength of the industrial chain. However, the current pace of development is not sufficient to meet Europe's climate objectives. In 2024, only 13 GW of new capacity were installed , far from the 35 GW per year required to reach the 425 GW planned for 2030.

In this scenario, research and innovation are key levers to accelerate technological and industrial progress. ETIPWind, with the support of academia and governments, has outlined a joint strategy to transform the potential of wind energy into competitiveness on a global scale. But to realize this vision, a shift in financing policies is needed.

Towards a new European Fund for Wind Research and Competitiveness

In the report “From Innovation to Industrial Competitiveness” , ETIPWind proposes the creation of a European Wind Energy Fund, integrated into the next multiannual EU budget (2028-2034). This instrument should act as a single point of reference for R&I financing, covering all stages of technological development: from basic research to large-scale implementation.

The aim is to overcome the critical issues of the current system , which is often fragmented, bureaucratic and poorly targeted. The new fund should be accompanied by an increase in public funding – at least 600 million euros per year – and a radical simplification of administrative procedures.

Priority areas include automation of production processes, optimisation of installation, enhancement of port and network infrastructure, and strengthening of the supply chain. Only through coordinated action and a shared strategic vision will it be possible to consolidate the role of wind energy as a driver of the green transition and of European industrial competitiveness.