Wind energy in Flanders: plenty of opportunities for a wind-filled year in 2025
The year 2024 marked a low point for the deployment of wind energy in Flanders. Only 12 new wind turbines were installed, representing less than 30% of the annual growth required to achieve the region’s 2030 renewable energy targets. This is the lowest number of new installations recorded in the past decade. (Source)
Common misconceptions about wind turbines
Despite the growing importance of wind energy, several misconceptions continue to slow down its deployment. Some of the most common are:
"Wind turbines are noisy"
Modern wind turbines are designed to operate quietly and must comply with strict noise regulations. In many cases, the sound levels experienced by nearby residents are comparable to everyday background noise.
"Wind turbines have a major negative impact on nature"
Like any infrastructure project, wind farms can affect the surrounding environment. However, extensive environmental assessments are carried out before construction, and turbine locations are carefully selected to minimise impacts on wildlife, habitats and biodiversity.
"Wind energy is not cost-effective"
Today, wind energy is one of the most cost-competitive sources of renewable electricity. Over their lifetime, wind turbines can generate large amounts of clean energy at a predictable cost, helping to reduce dependence on volatile energy markets.
Want to learn more? Download our one-pager below, where we address these and other common misconceptions about wind energy.
What does Encon do?
Despite the challenging market conditions, Encon continued to drive progress in 2024. We secured permits for more than 70 MW of wind energy capacity in Flanders and are currently overseeing the construction of four new wind turbines.
With our expertise in project development, permitting and implementation, we help companies identify opportunities for wind energy and turn them into successful projects that create both environmental and economic value.
