German trade association VDMA Power Systems has called for a national repowering strategy for older wind farms.
The association has called on the federal government to consider an accelerated approval process for repowering projects as part of its proposals.
By the middle of the 2020s, around half of the onshore wind turbines operating in Germany will reach the end of their 20-year subsidy payments, VDMA Power Systems has estimated.
Around 15,000 turbines with a collective 16GW of capacity will be affected, said the group.
The Federal Council’s Economic and Environmental Committee recommends that no follow-up funding be given for these older turbines, which the body agrees with.
However, VDMA Power Systems has published a position paper on the subject of repowering, where old turbines are replaced with modern units, and the “urgent need” for a repowering strategy.
The association also advised state government departments should introduce exceptions to the spacing regulations for repowering projects and allow flexibility for deviations from height restrictions.
VDMA Power Systems managing director Matthias Zelinger said: “Legislators should therefore strategically support repowering with newer turbines.
“We are very critical of the current debate about follow-up funding or demands for so-called ‘small repowering’.
“More efficient and modern systems are an important component in achieving national and international climate goals.”
Zelinger said repowering also helps the German wind supply chain to continue to deploy more advanced technologies and innovations.
“This strengthens Germany as a location for research and production,” he added.