As the global push for renewable energy grows, offshore wind farms have become a central solution. But a lesser-known issue is now drawing attention: “wind theft.” This term refers to the wake effect, where wind turbines disrupt airflow behind them, reducing the wind speed available to downstream turbines.
Scientists have observed that these wakes can stretch over 100 kilometers, causing power production losses of up to 10% in some installations. In densely packed regions like the North Sea, this has sparked tension between developers and neighboring countries, with accusations of one project impacting another’s efficiency.
Though “wind theft” is not a technical term, it captures the urgency of developing better regulatory frameworks and spatial planning to prevent conflicts and improve overall efficiency in renewable energy production.
Adapted from content originally published by BBC Future.
