Denmark, a pioneer in modern wind power technology

Denmark is the leading wind power nation in the world. The Danes were pioneers in developing commercial wind power during the 1970’s and today almost half of the wind turbines all over the world are produced by Danish manufacturers.

Wind power is also important in Denmark because it is a green, clean and renewable energy. Scandinavians are known for their advanced environmental policies, and wind power has given the Danes a way to reduce their dependency on polluting fuels: 20% of Denmark’s electricity consumption is covered by clean electricity produced at Danish wind farms. At times, wind power supply is able to cover the total electricity consumption of the whole west of Denmark.

Wind industry creates welfareWind turbines are popular in Denmark. According to public opinion polls carried out in Denmark, 86% of the Danes support wind energy when compared with existing fuel sources. The polls also show that direct involvement of the general public in wind farm projects has helped to increase local approval.

Privately owned wind turbines

Some 150,000 Danes have already invested in wind power and own wind turbines or shares in wind turbine co-operatives. Denmark has about 5,500 wind turbines, out of which 75% are privately owned by local co-operatives. Most of the employment created by the Danish wind industry is primarily situated in sparsely populated areas of the country, contributing importantly to the welfare of some rural economies.