Installed wind and solar capacities in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia are increasing significantly every year, as a result of which the Baltic States could become completely energy independent within seven or eight years, and later export green energy to other European countries as well, mainly Germany. “According to our calculations, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia can produce about seven times more green electricity than we currently consume. The total potential of the Baltic countries’ offshore wind parks is around 26-30 GW, of which about half can be reached directly in Latvia. The natural potential of onshore wind farms in the Baltics is around 18-20 GW, which means that the opportunities for growth are huge. Of course, such a level of development will not be achieved immediately, not even in two, three or five years, but in general it is possible. This potential is not only seen by us, but also by other developers, so I think that in the next 30 years the Baltic States will be very interesting for renewable energy investors. That means that the Baltic states will be able to provide electricity for their own needs and to play an important role in the energy sectors of other countries. This is a historic opportunity for our region, so we are ready to invest in the Baltics”, says Maikstenas. Gradual development In 2023, the wind capacity installed in Lithuania already exceeded 1 GW, meanwhile in Estonia it was 376 megawatts (MW), but in Latvia only 137 MW. Lasma Livzeniece, executive director at Latvian Wind Energy Association, claims that the main reasons for the slow development of wind energy in Latvia are related to the historic emphasis on natural gas as the main energy source, a lack of motivation among local governments, as well as a changing regulatory environment. "In Latvia, there is a tendency to adjust the existing regulatory acts every now and then, which has a significant impact on the investments already made. Lately, we’ve also seen additional restrictions on the construction of wind farms, such as the bird map, radar map (both currently in the approval process), network restrictions and others. We should also consider the volatile energy market prices and the challenges in the global supply chains which have resulted from the war in Ukraine. The nearby war has also made foreign investors a little more cautious", says Livzeniece. Ilvija Boreiko, Development Director of Latvenergo also confirms that the development of wind energy projects in Latvia is slower than in neighbouring countries. "This is mainly due to the fact that Latvia's electricity production portfolio already features renewable resources, thanks to the hydroelectric power plants. At the same time, it must be recognized that the developers of wind energy projects in Latvia are currently facing several obstacles. These are related to both the complicated environmental impact requirements and the availability and sufficiency of connection capacities. In my opinion, we should establish clear criteria on where the construction of wind farms is allowed and where it is prohibited. In Estonia, for example, a decision was made to purchase additional radars, thereby significantly increasing the areas where the construction of wind farms is allowed", Boreiko explains. Wind is the key In wind energy, growth opportunities are seen across all three Baltic countries, according to Lauri Ulm, the Head of Wind Energy Developments in Enefit Green. “European Union member states were required to update their national climate plans in 2023. All three Baltic countries revised their climate targets and are committed to increasing the share of renewables in gross final energy consumption by 2030. The key to large-scale energy production lies in wind energy. According to Latvia’ National Energy and Climate Plan, the goal for 2030 is to increase the proportion of renewable electricity to 70%, yet Estonia and Lithuania plan to produce 100% of electricity from renewables by 2030”, says Ulm, adding that in the last years the Baltic States have made significant improvements in the regulatory environment for investments in renewables. “Bringing new wind farms online is the most impactful solution to increase energy security, contribute to the climate goals, and make electricity more affordable to consumers. In order for wind energy in the Baltics to develop faster, several measures can be taken. Firstly, there needs to be continued collaboration between developers and regulatory bodies to streamline environmental conservation restrictions, while still prioritizing ecological sustainability. Secondly, investment in infrastructure to improve grid connections is crucial to ensure the smooth integration of wind projects into the existing energy system. Lastly, policymakers should provide clear and stable frameworks for renewable energy investments, including long-term support mechanisms and incentives to enhance investment certainty for developers”, argues Ulm.