Europe’s wind energy sector recorded new turbine orders totaling 5.8 GW in the first quarter of 2026, according to WindEurope data, signaling continued investment activity despite a moderate slowdown compared to previous periods.
A significant portion of new orders came from the United Kingdom, where offshore wind projects accounted for 2.8 GW of capacity. The UK led all European markets with nearly 2.9 GW of total turbine orders, followed by Germany with 1.4 GW and Turkey with 390 MW. While the overall volume remained solid, market activity eased compared to earlier benchmarks.
Total contracted capacity was 20% lower than in the final quarter of 2025 and 4% below the level recorded in the same quarter a year earlier. Nevertheless, strong offshore activity in the UK contributed to the highest level of ordering seen in the past five quarters, supporting overall market momentum.
During the quarter, 71 wind farm projects secured firm turbine supply agreements, with Germany accounting for more than half of all contracted projects. Of the total capacity ordered, 5.5 GW was publicly disclosed, indicating a high level of transparency in reported deals.
Vestas maintained its dominant position in the European market, capturing around 60% of all announced orders. Nordex followed with a 32% share, while Enercon, Goldwind, GE Vernova, Siemens Energy, and EWT collectively made up the remaining market share.
Technology trends continued to shift toward larger units. The average size of onshore wind turbines ordered reached a record 6.4 MW, the highest level in five quarters, while offshore turbines averaged 15 MW, reflecting the industry’s ongoing transition toward higher-capacity and more efficient equipment.
Service agreements also remained central to procurement strategies. Around 87% of ordered capacity included operation and maintenance contracts, while projects totaling 1.2 GW included long-term maintenance arrangements extending for at least 20 years, underscoring the growing importance of lifecycle service models.
Overall, while turbine ordering activity softened compared with late 2025, Europe’s wind sector continues to be supported by large offshore investments and a clear shift toward larger, more advanced turbine technologies.
