How much electricity did wind power supply globally in 2024?
Wind supplied about 2,500 terawatt-hours of electricity in 2024. This output represented over 8% of the world's total electricity generation.
Questions about Wind power
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What is the maximum theoretical efficiency limit for wind turbines according to Albert Betz?
German physicist Albert Betz proved in 1919 that no machine could capture more than 59% of wind kinetic energy. Modern turbines reach 70 to 80% of this theoretical limit known as the Betz limit.
When was the first turbine for electric power production installed in Scotland?
The first turbine for electric power production appeared in Scotland in July 1887. Professor James Blyth installed a high cloth-sailed unit at Marykirk in Kincardineshire.
Which countries drove most new wind installations following the addition of roughly 100 GW during 2021?
China and the United States drove most of these new installations. Global installed capacity exceeded 800 gigawatts following the addition of roughly 100 GW during 2021.
How much did it cost to generate new wind-generated electricity in 2021 according to Lazard?
A 2021 Lazard study estimated new wind-generated electricity cost between $26 and $50 per megawatt-hour. Offshore wind averaged around $83/MWh while new gas power ranged from $45 to $74/MWh during that period.