As South-East Europe (SEE) navigates its energy transition, wind power is increasingly recognized as a vital element in achieving a balanced and flexible energy system. With solar energy leading the charge in structural changes, wind is positioned to complement these developments by addressing the region’s growing demand for system flexibility and seasonal diversification.
Currently, wind energy accounts for approximately 9% of the generation mix in SEE. Its role is particularly crucial during times when solar output diminishes, such as in the evenings and winter months. However, the sector faces challenges due to its inherent variability; for instance, wind generation saw a significant drop of –1,494 MW in early April, underscoring the need for effective management of intermittency issues.
Recent project activity reflects a renewed commitment to expanding wind capacity across the region. In Bulgaria, Vestas has secured a contract to supply turbines for a 70 MW wind project, reinforcing the nation’s status as a key renewable energy player within SEE. This initiative aligns with broader goals to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on imported fuels amidst fluctuating gas prices.
In Croatia, the 80 MW Čemernica wind farm is under development, supported by government financing and EU decarbonization policies. This project exemplifies a trend toward mid-scale wind developments that aim to enhance system resilience while complementing solar growth.
Serbia is also making strides in its wind sector, with projects like the Uljma 2 wind farm entering planning stages. Wind power currently contributes about 7.5% of Serbia’s electricity generation, with steady capacity growth over the last decade. The Vojvodina region remains particularly attractive for investment due to favorable wind conditions and proximity to transmission networks.
North Macedonia is advancing its renewable agenda with the Stip wind project currently in public consultation, indicating sustained regional interest in wind as an essential renewable source. Meanwhile, Turkey continues to bolster its wind portfolio with new additions such as the 70 MW Karaman wind farm, solidifying its role as a significant player in the regional energy landscape.
The case of Montenegro illustrates the strategic importance of wind within smaller interconnected systems. Existing facilities like the 72 MW Krnovo, 46 MW Možura, and newly operational 54 MW Gvozd wind farms contribute significantly to export capacity while aiding in coal diversification. Ongoing discussions about new renewable joint ventures that integrate solar, wind, and storage suggest a shift towards maximizing export potential through enhanced interconnections.
A clear trend emerging across SEE is that wind and solar are not direct competitors; rather, they serve complementary roles. While solar excels during daylight hours, wind generation provides essential output during off-peak periods and times of low solar irradiation. This synergy is crucial for decreasing dependency on fossil fuels and enhancing overall grid stability.
Despite these advancements, both solar and wind developments encounter structural challenges related to grid capacity and connection availability. Many transmission systems in SEE are nearing saturation levels, which restricts new projects from accessing necessary grid infrastructure. This situation has prompted a focus on hybrid projects that co-locate wind, solar, and storage technologies to optimize grid use.
The dynamics of the market further highlight wind’s growing significance. As midday solar generation drives down prices, the value of wind energy during evening hours becomes increasingly pronounced. This trend holds particular importance in export-oriented markets where timing can greatly affect price realization and cross-border electricity flows.
From an operational perspective, developers are now assessing wind projects not solely on their individual economic viability but also on their integration within broader energy portfolios. The combination of wind with solar and storage solutions aims to create more predictable output profiles that enhance market revenues.
The future trajectory of wind development in South-East Europe is expected to feature fewer but more sophisticated projects that leverage advanced forecasting techniques, innovative storage solutions, and optimized grid connections. As the region progresses towards a renewable-centric energy framework, wind power will play an essential role in maintaining system reliability and facilitating sustainable growth without compromising export capabilities.
