Sweden issued only two new permits for wind power projects in 2024, as local government vetoes and objections from the Armed Forces continue to hamper the development of both onshore and offshore renewable energy, according to a new analysis by the Swedish Wind Energy Association.
Out of 16 final decisions on onshore wind applications this year, only one project was partially approved—down from 12 granted in 2023. Offshore wind fared similarly, with just one of 14 applications approved.
The association described the situation as a significant obstacle to scaling up large-scale energy production. “It is extremely serious that so much new electricity production is stopped when the expansion needs to increase sharply,” said Ina Müller Engelbrektson, a legal adviser to the industry body. “The government has the opportunity to quickly improve the conditions by changing the forms of the municipal veto and getting the promised incentives for municipalities, local residents and local communities in place.”
The military’s role in the permitting process also remains a sticking point. “A clear mandate is needed for the Armed Forces to work for co-existence with wind power where possible,” Engelbrektson added.
Despite the low approval rates, interest in developing wind power remains strong. In 2024, a record number of consultations for onshore wind were conducted, with the number of new applications close to the previous year’s level. Offshore wind developers continue to pursue planning processes, despite the government’s rejection of 13 applications in November 2023.
“The Inquiry into Offshore Wind Power has submitted a proposal that existing projects should continue to be managed according to the current process,” said Lina Kinning, head of offshore wind at Swedish Wind Energy. “There are 12 applications that are still waiting for the government to make a decision.”
Data compiled by consultancy Westander Climate and Energy for the association showed a consistent downward trend in permit approvals over the past decade. In southern Sweden—classified as Bidding Area 4—only one onshore wind project has received a permit in the past five years, despite the region having the country’s highest electricity prices and greatest need for new generation capacity.
