Generating energy through photovoltaic panels and wind turbines even in winter? Yes! Last weekend's record clean energy production in Germany proves it's possible.
Since last week, the country has been facing strong winds, with intense cold before the official arrival of winter. The strength of the gusts benefited the production of renewable energy, reaching 101% of electricity consumption last Sunday (26), according to data from Fraunhofer Institute. Most of the electricity came from wind turbines.
Storm Joshua Boosts Wind Power
The Sturmtief “Joshua” storm front hit several regions of Germany, mainly in the north and at higher altitudes. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), in some locations, winds reached 120 km/h.
Over the weekend, gusts ranged from 60 to 85 km/h, and in mountainous regions, they reached 100 km/h, classifying them as severe storms. Despite the risk, the phenomenon significantly boosted wind turbines, boosting clean, renewable energy production to record levels.
Turbines turned off and energy wasted
According to the newspaper NDR info, in some regions, mainly in the north of the country, wind farms had to be temporarily shut down due to the intensity of the winds.
This measure is due to the limitations of the German power grid, which is not yet prepared to transport large amounts of renewable energy to other regions. As a result, much electricity is wasted.
In 2024, according to B.W.O. (German Offshore Wind Energy Association), around 4,6 TWh were no longer produced, enough to power 1,7 million electric cars for a year.
Energy storage as a solution
To reduce waste, it is essential to expand transmission lines and invest in battery storage, allowing peak-generated energy to be used even when the weather is not favorable for solar or wind production.
Currently, Germany does not yet have sufficient storage capacity, according to NDR Info, which limits the full use of clean energy generated on stormy days.
Weather forecast and safety
The DWD warns that the storm is expected to continue until Wednesday (29). From Thursday (30), the forecast indicates a reduction in winds and an increase in temperatures in several regions of the country.
Authorities emphasize the need for caution, especially in coastal and wooded areas, due to the risk of falling branches and objects thrown by the wind.
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