The world's tallest wind turbine is being erected in the German state of Brandenburg, marking a significant step in the country's transition to renewable energy.
Upon completion, the 365-meter-tall structure near Schipkau—located in the former coal-mining region of Lusatia—will be taller than the Eiffel Tower. The project has become one of the most prominent symbols of Germany's transition to clean energy, while simultaneously sparking debate about the future of the country's energy sector, industry, and local community development.
The project is being carried out by the Dresden-based engineering company Gicon. Recently, steel structures weighing hundreds of tons were installed at the construction site using massive cranes. Despite challenging weather conditions, construction work has progressed rapidly in recent weeks.
The turbine is scheduled to begin operation before the end of this year. Its large rotor blades, positioned at a significant height, will capture stronger and more stable winds, enabling the generation of significantly more electricity than traditional onshore wind turbines.
It will be able to supply electricity to 7,500 households.
According to Gicon founder Jochen Grossmann, the turbine will generate enough electricity to supply approximately 7,500 households. He noted that its output would be comparable to that of offshore wind turbines, even though it will be located onshore. Offshore wind turbines are typically more efficient because the wind at sea is stronger and more consistent.
The project received funding of €20–30 million from a German state agency for technology development. It is part of the country's long-term energy strategy aimed at reducing reliance on coal, oil, and nuclear power.
Germany shut down its last nuclear power plants in 2023 and continues to phase out coal-fired power generation. Last year, renewable energy sources accounted for nearly 59% of the electricity generated in Germany, and wind power remains one of the country's most important sources of electricity.
Energy independence has become a priority.
Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which significantly impacted gas supplies to Europe, Germany accelerated efforts to boost domestic energy production. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East also raised further concerns regarding the reliability of energy supplies.
Jochen Grossman emphasizes that Germany has limited natural resources; therefore, wind and solar energy represent the primary path to achieving climate goals and ensuring greater energy independence. He estimates that such projects will help reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels in the long term.
The project also sparked political discussions.
However, the construction of the wind turbine has drawn criticism from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which questions the impact of large wind farms on the environment and local communities. Dissatisfaction among local residents has also grown in certain regions of East Germany, where many jobs have been lost due to the decline of the coal industry.
AfD regional MP Birgit Bessin believes that local residents should have a greater say in decisions regarding the implementation of such projects. She cites concerns raised by hunters and the operators of a nearby airfield, and also maintains that nuclear power remains a more suitable source of low-emission electricity generation.
The AfD has also expressed concern regarding the potential release of microplastic particles from rotor blades; however, scientific studies conducted to date have not confirmed that current exposure levels pose a threat to human health. Environmental agencies continue to monitor the issue as wind turbine technologies evolve.
Meanwhile, Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government has adopted a more cautious stance regarding the rapid expansion of renewable energy than the previous administration. Economy Minister Katharina Reiche announced plans to build new natural gas-fired power plants to ensure a stable electricity supply during periods when wind and solar energy generation is insufficient.
In recent years, electricity prices in Germany have risen significantly. Following turmoil in the global gas market and geopolitical conflicts, energy costs have increased substantially, and business associations have warned that high prices are negatively affecting economic growth and industrial competitiveness.
Local residents are hoping for a reduction in electricity bills.
Schipkau Mayor Klaus Prizel wants local residents to benefit directly from the project. He believes it is possible for the municipality to take ownership of the wind turbine in the future, which would help lower household electricity costs.
People living near existing wind farms already receive around 80 euros annually from the revenue generated by wind energy projects. Municipalities believe that this profit-sharing helps boost public support for renewable energy projects, although the AfD characterizes it as a political tool for influence.
The wind turbine in Schipkau is not only an impressive engineering project but also a symbol of Germany's quest to strike a balance between climate goals, economic interests, and political divisions. As construction proceeds, this project is likely to influence ongoing discussions regarding Europe's energy transition and the future of industry.
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