.jpg)
The Swedish government has rejected applications to build 13 offshore wind farms in the Baltic Sea, stating that their location could compromise national security. The proposed sites stretched from the Åland Islands in the north along Sweden’s east coast to the Öresund strait. Officials cited the potential interference with Sweden’s defense operations as a primary reason for the decision.
Defense Minister Pål Jonson explained that wind farms in these areas could obstruct the use of Patriot batteries, making it challenging to detect and intercept missiles in a potential conflict. "The strategic location of these projects poses risks that we cannot ignore," Jonson said at a press conference.
The government, however, approved one new project, the Poseidon wind farm off the west coast near Stenungsund, comprising up to 81 turbines capable of generating 5.5 terawatt hours annually. This marks the third offshore wind project approved since 2022, following Kattegat South and Galene on the west coast.
Balancing Energy and Security Needs
The decision has spurred debate over how Sweden will meet its ambitious target of doubling annual electricity production over the next 20 years. Offshore wind was expected to play a significant role, but security concerns are reshaping this approach. Currently, 10 additional offshore wind projects await a government decision.
To compensate, Sweden plans to expand its nuclear capacity, aiming for an additional 2,500 megawatts by 2035 and 10 new reactors by 2045. However, critics argue that demand will likely outpace the nuclear build-out timeline.
