Spain reaches 10.028 MW of wind power in 2005

The total wind energy production in 2005 reached, according to Red Eléctrica de España (REE, the country's grid operator), 20,236 GWh, which represents exactly 7.78% of the total demand in 2005 (at 259,950 GWh).

The growth in wind energy production has been constant along all the months of 2005, being considered as "high production". Wind has overtaken small hydro for the first time; the latter reached 19,442 GWh, according to REE, and had a greater availability during the summer months.

With this figures, wind power remains as the fourth largest electricity generation technology in Spain, besides of an increasingly important complement of small hydro power as a variable-cost renewable source.

The project creation speed slowed down during 2005 mainly due to administrative delays and issues with access to grid connection. The industry has maintained a steady and sustainable growth rateo that makes meeting the PER goal of 20,155 MW by 2010 easier.

Wind power has helped in decreasing fossil fuel imports, achieving savings of more than 728 million euros during last year, mainly due to the reduction in natural gas and coal purchases.

Wind power has represented savings for the Spanish economy of 14.7 million tonnes of CO2 in emission permits not purchased during last year. This figure represents 294 million euros (at a price of 20 €/t CO2).

As concerns compannies, Iberdrola represents 32.51% of the market, followed by Acciona at 10.47% of market share. Endesa is third with 8,66%, Cesa being fourth, with 7.37%.

In regards to manufacturers, Gamesa (49.95%) remains being the leader. Made (Endesa) is second albeit far behind (12.15%). Neg Micon (10.66%) and Ecotècnia (8.45%) are third and fourth progressively, while a number of new producers are entering the Spanish market.

Wind turbines have grown in size. The average size during 2005 was close to 1,400 kW, from below 1,200 kW one year before. This growth is, according to AEE, mainly due to a greater effectiveness , which demands a greater blade length, and also the challenge to tackle the visual impact of such facilities, placing turbines further away from each other.

As concerns regions, although Catalonia and Andalusia have seen big relative growths, the regions usually most active in the industry (Galicia, Castilla La Mancha, Castilla y León) keep on growing at a fast pace.

Further information:
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Spain reaches 10.028 MW of wind power in 2005