KEY OBSTACLES TO WIND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT: A STUDY WITH THE TOP 10 COUNTRIES IN NEWLY INSTALLED CAPACITY

Abstract

This article identifies and classifies the key obstacles to wind energy development, in order to better understand these barriers and provide guidelines to help public managers to develop and share new energy policies. The methodology used was a case study with documentary research, carried out through an analysis of the Global Wind Report - Annual Market Update, 2009 to 2013, published by Global Wind Energy Council - GWEC. The results showed a significant occurrence of technological and operational obstacles, especially concerning electricity grids. The results lead to the conclusion that the biggest issue for wind energy development is concentrated in technological and operational obstacles, especially concerning the management of transmission networks. In addition, the results indicate the possibility of countries, with common obstacles, to improve their energy policies in partnership, or share their successful expertises.