In 2010, the total power output generated using wind energy worldwide increased by 22 % to 194,390 MW. The total number of turbines installed worldwide by the end of 2010 generates 425 terawatt hours (TWh) annually, which is 2.5 % of worldwide electricity demand.

Due to the investment backlog caused by the global financial crisis, there was a significant slump on the world market for new wind turbines in 2010. At a total of 35,802 MW, around 7 % less were built than in 2009 (38,610 MW).

In many countries the construction volume of new turbines decreased from 2009 to 2010. The most significant cutbacks were reported in the USA (-48 %), Spain (-37 %) and Germany (-19 %), which, with a total of 27,214 MW of installed power, is ranked third worldwide.

The largest growth volume was achieved in China. In 2010, wind turbines with a cumulative capacity of 16,500 MW were installed. China has thus superseded the USA as the leading wind power nation with a total of 42,287 MW. The five largest countries in this ranking (China, USA, Germany, Spain and India) provide 74 % of global installed capacity. In relative terms, wind energy has become a main pillar of the electricity supply in many countries and regions. In Denmark, around 21 % of the total electricity generated is produced using wind power; in Portugal the figure is about 15 %, in Spain 14 %, and in Germany 7.5 %. By contrast, the proportion of electricity produced using wind power in the USA is still less than 1 %.

Classic mid-size engineering companies, including gear, generator and bearings manufacturers, metalworkers and foundries have opened up new areas of business in the German wind energy industry. Planning and engineering companies are also focusing on the wind industry, as are installation, service and maintenance companies. Turbine and component manufacturers earn most of the added-value profit in the German wind energy industry.

The German wind energy industry occupies the top technological position on the global market. German manufacturers export complete drive systems, key components and condition monitoring systems (CMS) all over the world. Whole turbines and individual components are developed and made in Germany and exported around the globe. In 2009, German manufacturers and suppliers earned 75 % of their turnover from exports. German experts also have comprehensive know-how in the areas of planning and project development, in wind measurement, and in developing technical improvements to optimise turbines. Germany, which obtains a high proportion of its power from wind, is not just the home market, but also a showcase for innovative technologies and network integration.