Despite ambitious renewable energy goals, Europe is still struggling with slow and bureaucratic permitting processes for wind farms. WindEurope, the voice of the European wind industry, warns that most national governments have failed to properly implement the EU’s Renewable Energy Directive, which was meant to speed up approvals. The European Commission has already launched infringement procedures against countries that have not complied. 2a3q6c

, however, is proving that faster permitting is possible. In 2025, the country approved 15 GW of new onshore wind capacity, seven times more than five years ago. The key to this success, according to WindEurope, is the application of Overriding Public Interest (OPI) in national law, which has significantly reduced legal challenges and made permitting authorities more confident in approving projects.

Meanwhile, other European countries are making the process even more complex. The mapping of Renewables Acceleration Areas, required under the new directive, has unintentionally created additional restrictions. WindEurope points out that much of Europe’s land was already unavailable for wind power due to distance regulations and environmental protections, and the new zoning requirements have further limited suitable areas. In some cases, governments have even designated areas for wind farms that lack proper grid connections or strong wind conditions.

Another major issue is the lack of one-stop shops for permitting, which should have been in place since 2021. By November 2024, governments are also required to fully digitalize permitting processes, a move that WindEurope strongly s. The association highlights that tools like EasyPermits already exist and can help streamline approvals.

WindEurope CEO Giles Dickson is calling on governments to act: “Come on, Governments. You have to implement the EU rules. And by not doing so, you’re missing out. Look at – they’re permitting seven times more wind than five years ago. And it didn’t cost them money; they simply applied ‘Overriding Public Interest’ and made sure courts followed it. Digitalizing permitting will save money and make the whole process more efficient.”