Navigating Europe’s Onshore Wind Regulations: International Onshore Wind Study
2025 - 04 - 10
Article by: Aivar Taro, Sandra Sillaots, Tom Suiste, Gatis Flinters, Mārtiņš Tarlaps, Alise Paškovska, Dr Paulius Markovas, Simona Oliškevičiūtė-Cicėnienė
Onshore wind energy is a key pillar of Europe’s energy transition, yet regulatory frameworks vary widely between countries. Understanding these legal landscapes is crucial for investors, developers, and policymakers. Our new International Onshore Wind Study provides a comprehensive, country-by-country analysis, offering essential insights into the evolving regulatory environment.
Law firm Luther, in collaboration with leading energy law firms from 29 European jurisdictions, has conducted a detailed examination of the legal frameworks governing onshore wind projects. On approximately 185 pages, the study offers both individual country analyses and comparative assessments of key legal issues affecting wind energy projects.
COBALT specialists from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania contributed to the sections on their respective jurisdictions.
In addition to outlining the regulatory framework, the study includes an assessment of the legal certainty of investments in the respective countries. Compiled between November 2023 and January 2025, the study reflects the latest developments across Europe.
What This Study Offers
- A Pan-European Perspective – A unique cross-border comparison of onshore wind regulations in 29 countries.
- Insights from Leading Experts – Developed with top-tier law firms specializing in energy and infrastructure law.
- Key Topics Covered:
- Securing land
- Planning and permitting
- Grid connection
- Marketing and remuneration
- Corporate structuring
According to WindEurope, 2023 was a record year for wind energy in Europe. Whether this momentum can be maintained remains uncertain, as further expansion will depend on the effectiveness of EU and national policy measures. The findings emphasize that onshore wind energy still holds significant growth potential, provided that regulatory barriers continue to be reduced.
Download the full study for free here.
For the editorial, there is also an interactive PDF, which is available here: International Onshore Wind Study 2025 – Editorial