Representatives from Terra Eolica attended Wind Europe 2024 in Bilbao, engaging with industry professionals and regulatory authorities. The event showcased advancements and emerging startups in the wind energy sector, allowing Terra Eolica to reconnect with existing partners and establish new connections.
Key insights from the event included the need for Europe to synchronize renewable energy development and wind generation with grid infrastructure to meet increasing electricity demand. Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are gaining traction, with a rising demand from small-scale purchasers seeking to mitigate risks. The pricing structure of PPAs is becoming more flexible, adapting to fluctuations in raw material prices and inflation, though curtailment risks must be considered.
Regarding permitting, communities are becoming more organized, complicating and prolonging negotiations with landlords. It is now standard to engage with communities by presenting plans for their social development. Denmark's pilot program for optimized permitting shows promise for wider implementation, though its monetization scheme is still in development. A key challenge remains the lack of effective communication channels with local communities.
Terra Eolica extends heartfelt thanks to the Basque Country for its warm hospitality and to Wind Europe for excellent organisation of the event.