In the first quarter of 2025, Sweden’s wind energy sector experienced a halt in new turbine orders, marking a continuation of a downward trend in investments observed over recent years. According to the latest statistics and forecasts from Svensk Vindenergi, no new investment decisions were made during this period.
Despite the lack of new investments, the installed wind power capacity continues to grow, with approximately 1 gigawatt (GW) commissioned in 2024. However, this growth is not keeping pace with the increasing electricity demands of Swedish industry. The current investment climate is challenged by factors such as low electricity prices, political uncertainty, and global economic instability, making investment calculations more complex.
Erik Almqvist, Head of Grid and Electricity Market at Svensk Vindenergi, emphasized the need for swift and robust measures to align electricity production expansion with demand. He highlighted that Sweden is diverging from the European trend, where other countries are attracting more capital for energy transition projects.
There are wind power projects totaling 1,815 megawatts (MW) that have obtained all necessary permits but are awaiting investment decisions. With improved market conditions, these projects could become operational before 2030.
In the first quarter of 2025, wind power generated 12.1 terawatt-hours (TWh), accounting for approximately 26% of Sweden’s total electricity production.
Svensk Vindenergi has proposed 25 measures to enhance the investment climate and support the expansion of wind power, including:
- Reducing investment risks through long-term policies promoting electrification.
- Ensuring clear and transparent legal and market conditions for both onshore and offshore wind power development.
- Improving coordination between electricity production expansion and demand through strengthened national and regional energy planning.
- Allowing more flexible start times in environmental permits and introducing effective options for permit extensions.
These initiatives aim to position Sweden as a leader in the global transition to a sustainable and fossil-free energy system.
Source: Svensk Vindenergi