Wind energy in Greece is on an upward trend, as at the end of 2023 the total wind power connected to the grid exceeded 5 GW, according to data announced by the Hellenic Wind Energy Association (ELETAEN). The 2023 statistics record the connection of 153 new wind turbines, with a total capacity of 542.8 MW, representing an increase of 11.6% compared to the previous year.
2023 is the second-best year, with the most installed wind capacity in the country’s history. This acceleration is due to the completion of major wind projects and the efforts of businesses, scientists, and industry professionals.
For the first time, wind capacity exceeded 5 GW, with the contribution of the wind turbine at the Kafirea wind complex in Evia, which was connected to the grid in the second half of 2023.
In the investment sector, around 850 MW of new wind farms were under construction or contracted by the end of 2023, with more than 300 MW expected to be connected to the grid within the next 12 months. In addition, around 400 MW are in tenders, while total wind capacity is expected to approach 6.5 GW within the next three years, once any bureaucratic hurdles are overcome.
Geographical distribution of investments:
Geographically, Central Greece remains the leading region in wind capacity with 2,293 MW (44%), followed by the Peloponnese with 639 MW (12%) and Eastern Macedonia-Thrace with 534 MW (10%). Interestingly, the geographical spread of new wind turbines is interesting, with installations in three regions of the country: central Greece, Western Macedonia, and Thessaly. This wide dispersion contributes to the optimal participation of wind energy in electricity generation, offering benefits to both the energy system and the consumer.