WindEurope has welcomed the EU’s updated state aid framework, saying it will accelerate industrial electrification and drive demand for wind energy.
The Clean Industrial State Aid Framework (CISAF), adopted by the European Commission, allows targeted national support for decarbonisation, including power purchase agreements and electrified heat processes.
WindEurope chief executive Giles Dickson said: “The new rules will help Europe’s heavy industry run on electricity rather than fossil fuels.”
The framework prioritises CAPEX support for clean-tech manufacturing and fast-tracks aid for grid upgrades and repowering.
WindEurope said PPAs supported under the scheme would “guarantee the electricity is renewable” and unlock new wind capacity.
It added that repowering support could triple output from existing sites while reducing turbine numbers by 25%.
The rules are set to remain in force until 2030 to give long-term investment certainty.