📚 Mock Exercise 14

In 2007, the Marine Energy Development Authority (MEDA), headquartered at 91 Coastal Research Drive, Copenhagen, Denmark, initiated a national strategy to expand offshore wind energy capacity. At the time, fossil fuels generated approximately 67% of the countrys electricity. Preliminary studies between 2008 and 2010 examined seabed conditions, turbine spacing, and grid connectivity. Early modelling suggested that offshore wind farms could generate up to 40% more electricity than onshore installations due to stronger and more consistent wind speeds.

Construction of the first large-scale offshore wind farm began in 2011 near the island of Anholt, 20 kilometres east of Jutland. The project became fully operational in September 2013, comprising 111 turbines with a combined capacity of 400 megawatts. According to MEDA reports, total construction costs reached DKK 10.5 billion, and the facility supplied electricity to approximately 400,000 households annually. These results demonstrated the commercial viability of offshore wind generation.

However, the programme encountered several challenges. A 2012 environmental impact assessment raised concerns about underwater noise affecting marine mammals during turbine installation. Fishing communities also expressed concern over restricted access to traditional fishing grounds. Additionally, maintenance costs were higher than anticipated, averaging DKK 1.2 million per turbine per year. In response, MEDA introduced stricter environmental guidelines in 2014 and funded research into quieter installation techniques.

Policy support increased significantly after 2015, when the Danish government approved DKK 18 billion in subsidies and infrastructure funding. By 2019, offshore wind accounted for 29% of Denmarks total electricity production. National energy statistics showed that carbon emissions from power generation declined by 24% between 2014 and 2020, reinforcing offshore winds role in the energy transition.

Economic and employment impacts were also observed. A 2021 study by Aarhus University estimated that the offshore wind sector created over 33,000 jobs nationwide. Export revenues from wind technology reached DKK 72 billion in 2022, making energy equipment one of Denmarks leading export categories. Coastal regions hosting wind farms also experienced increased investment in port infrastructure and maritime services.

Future development plans focus on expanding capacity and improving efficiency. MEDA aims to install floating wind turbines by 2032 to access deeper waters. As of February 2024, Denmarks offshore wind capacity stood at 2.6 gigawatts. New projects scheduled for 2027 include large-scale wind hubs in the North Sea, supporting the countrys target of achieving climate neutrality by 2045.