How has the Lithuanian wind energy sector developed over the years?

The Lithuanian Wind Power Association celebrates its 20th anniversary. During this time, wind energy has evolved and grown considerably!

We asked those who have seen the changes up close – former LVEA presidents Alvydas Naujėkas, Aistis Radavičius, Urtė Daškevičiūtė, Edgaras Maladauskas and current president Linas Sabaliauskas – to recall the most important events in the sector. So, what events and processes have shaped Lithuania’s energy sector?

• LVEA was established in 2005. The electricity generated by wind turbines is now sold to the grid, and changes in electricity prices are driving more investor interest.
• 2006 construction of first wind farm – the first of 15 power plants of UAB’s Vėjų spektras project was commissioned.
• 2011 Renewable Energy Law adopted, creating a transparent regulatory environment.
• In 2012, wind energy was included in the National Energy Independence Strategy with a target of 500 MW by 2020.
• In 2014, the 500 MW cap was reached and discusions about offshore wind has begun.
• In 2016, the transition from a subsidy-based model to commercial power generation started.
• In 2018-2019, a new electricity sales model, the Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (VPA), was legislated. Wind energy has been able to develop without government support.
• 2022 The first wind park built with private investment and connected to the grid (since 2016) was opened.
• In 2023, Ignitis Renewables, together with partner Ocean Winds, has won the tender for the first 700 MW offshore wind farm in Lithuania. Development of the Curonian Nord wind farm starts.
• In 2023 – record onshore wind power generation was achieved – the highest since the closure of the Ignalina nuclear power plant in 2010.
• In 2024, onshore wind capacity reached , 1 741 MW. The same year, 81% of Lithuania‘s electricity was generated from renewables and 46% from wind farms.

We are delighted to see such a significant transformation of the sector and to how wind energy became a pillar of our energy independence. We look forward to seeing where the sector goes from here!