227. Wind + Grids = Energy Security - May26

Gerard and Laurent welcome Tinne Van der Straeten, CEO of WindEurope—the leading voice of the wind industry in Europe, representing more than 600 members across the entire value chain. Tinne brings a distinctive perspective to the discussion. As Belgium’s Minister for Energy during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, she experienced an energy crisis firsthand. Her background in policymaking offers a different vantage point from that of investors, shaped by the practical realities and trade-offs of government decision-making.

The conversation highlights that, despite ongoing challenges, wind energy continues to expand rapidly across Europe, with €45 billion in final investment decisions recorded in 2025. There is now a clear opportunity to repower first-generation onshore turbines, which could double installed capacity and potentially triple electricity generation. Offshore wind also stands out as a major growth area, with the North Sea remaining the central hub, while the Baltic Sea is developing steadily and early signs of momentum are emerging in Spain.

At the same time, the discussion points to the persistence of outdated, ideologically driven debates around energy sources—such as gas in Germany or nuclear in France—which increasingly feel disconnected from current realities. Policies like bans on onshore wind in Poland and offshore wind in Sweden illustrate decisions that risk slowing progress.

A central theme is the urgent need to electrify demand, particularly through the adoption of electric vehicles, heat pumps, and the expansion of data centers.

The conversation concludes by emphasizing that the missing piece is a large, integrated pan-European grid—potentially extending to Canada—combined with battery storage. Such infrastructure would accelerate decarbonization, support economic resilience, and help Europe regain control over its energy future.

Sources:

• GWEC 2026 https://www.gwec.net/reports/globalwindreport
• WindEurope Wind Energy Statistics and Outlook Report https://windeurope.org/news/europe-invested-45bn-in-new-wind-energy-in-2025-market-tampering-would-put-future-investments-at-acute-risk/
• WindEurope energy system cost study: https://windeurope.org/news/a-renewables-based-energy-system-will-save-europe-1-6-trillion/