Wind power – why it’s controversial in parts of Germany yet indispensible
Wind turbines as far as the eye can see. We’re in Uckerfelde, northeast of Berlin. These are just some of Germany’s 28,000 turbines. Wind power is key to the country’s energy transition, but it’s also controversial. Although most support expanding wind power, many people don’t feel as if they’re involved enough in the construction of wind farms.
How could the population be better involved?
Some residents who live near wind farms feel that the turbines disfigure the landscape and that they are not involved. Decisions are being made over their heads, and the wind power on their doorsteps does not make their electric bills any cheaper. Overall, Germans are open to wind energy - about 80% say it’s rather important. People in Germany have varying attitudes toward wind energy. Most residents of Dardesheim, for example, now accept the turbines. A local cooperative owns nearly all of the 43 turbines and electricity prices remain low. Locals also support further expansion. The German Renewable Energy Sources Act requires companies to make a voluntary contribution of 0.2 cents per kilowatt hour to compensate communities near wind and solar farms. However, experts say that more needs to be done to gain public acceptance. Stefan Gsänger, WWEA, cites examples such as donations to local organizations, more tax revenue for communities to renovate schools. Or the possibility of offering shares to residents, so they could invest and benefit from the income and profits.
Indispensable for the energy transition
The cost of generating electricity from wind turbines is falling worldwide. Solar and wind are the cheapest sources of energy today. And they are becoming more important as a substitute for fossil fuels. Despite local criticism, wind energy still accounted for around a third of electricity generation in 2024. It’s the most important source of energy in Germany. And it will be further expanded.