Vestas CEO Warns EU Fragmented Wind Policy Risks Energy Independence

Henrik Andersen, CEO of Vestas Wind Systems, has warned that Europe's fragmented industrial and energy policies threaten its leadership in wind energy manufacturing, risking a shift of companies like Vestas to the U.S. and other regions. He emphasized that wind energy is essentially a European innovation but without stronger, cohesive industrial strategies, Europe will lose its competitive edge amid challenges such as permitting delays, regulatory overreach, supply chain issues, and competition from Chinese manufacturers. Andersen criticized the EU's longstanding resistance to industrial consolidation, arguing that this fragmentation undermines Europe's ability to compete globally and pointed to U.S. policies as a model for fostering large, globally competitive companies. The EU’s fragmented permitting processes and grid infrastructure shortcomings further impede growth, with potential economic benefits including a €49 billion GDP boost and over 500,000 jobs if policies are streamlined. Andersen stressed the importance of linking energy and industrial policies closely to reduce energy prices and achieve energy independence, especially amid geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures. His call to action urges the EU to accelerate permitting, rethink offshore wind auctions, and prioritize grid modernization to maintain Europe’s renewable energy leadership.