Global Wind Day: Wind power for greater energy independence

This year we also put the spotlight on energy dependence. The six biggest fossil fuel importers in the world - the EU, China, the US, Japan, Korea and India - spend over $1,680 billion per year to import polluting coal, oil and gas.

"Recent events in Ukraine have shown us once again that reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports and replacing them with renewable energy has become an urgent matter. Not only does this make sense in terms of increased energy security but it also helps to avert catastrophic climate change; and the economics of wind has become very attractive", said Steve Sawyer, GWEC secretary general.  

Importing coal, oil and gas is not only expensive, it also has a number of disadvantages, such as increased CO2 emissions and pollution; vulnerability to price fluctuations on the world market; supply disturbances and becoming exposed to political decisions and pressure. Many energy importing countries are desperately seeking to diversify their energy mix. The good news is that renewable energy can completely or partially replace imported energy, thereby enhancing their energy security. Access to affordable and secure local energy supply can also enable growth in developing countries and creates much needed jobs.

"In Europe, each person is spending over €2 per day to import energy", commented Thomas Becker, CEO of the European Wind Energy Association. "Wind energy can help reduce these imports, increasing energy security while bringing jobs and cleaner air," he added.

On Sunday 15 June, Global Wind Day will play host to a wide range of events around the world. From family picnics in Canberra to wind energy seminars in Tehran, there is something for everyone. Why not take part in a golf tournament in Ontario, visit a wind farm in Germany or check out an art exhibition in a wind turbine in Estonia?

To find out about the events taking place near you and for more information and an infographic on energy independence, visit: www.globalwindday.org

Europeans each spend over €2 per day on energy imports. To find out more and support the European campaign for Global Wind Day: www.globalwindday.org/thunderclap.