Innovation in the wind energy sector

Wind power has ascended from being a niche technology developed by enthusiastic idealists, to being a pivotal element in global energy transitions led by multinational corporations. It has thus emerged rapidly as a leading renewable energy source globally, driven by imperatives to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and achieve energy security, on the one hand, and rapidly evolving technological trajectories and declining turbine costs, on the other. This paper examines the nature and characteristics of wind energy innovation by tracing the historical evolution of wind energy innovation, examining key milestones from 19th-century turbine development to contemporary advancements. Drawing on patent data, it reveals critical innovation trajectories, including the consolidation of modern turbine design, as being critical to the emergence of wind energy as a competitive technology. Moreover, the paper shows how rapid innovation has been rooted in the emergence of global production and innovation networks among leading wind turbine manufacturers. Yet, despite wind energy's substantial contributions to decarbonization efforts, persisting innovation challenges demands continued advancement. To respond to this challenge, the sector is increasingly focused on ‘post turbine’ wind innovation in which advanced digital technologies take centre stage.