Airborne Wind Europe, the association representing the European airborne wind energy sector, welcomes the decision of the German Bundesrat calling on the federal government to adapt aviation regulations to enable the permanent and safe integration of airborne wind energy systems into German airspace. Policymakers, relevant ministries, and authorities are now urged to swiftly establish a clear regulatory framework for this emerging technology.
Recently, the Bundesrat voted in favor of Schleswig-Holstein’s resolution to strengthen airborne wind energy. The resolution requests that the federal government, through adjustments to air law, allow the long-term and safe integration of AWE into national airspace. This decision follows recommendations from the Committees on Transport, Internal Affairs, and Economic Affairs.
The Bundesrat initiative (Document 525/25) emphasizes that widespread integration of airborne wind energy requires regulations tailored to the technology’s specific needs, such as dedicated marking requirements for AWE. The framework should be developed in close consultation with the industry, with the goal of creating a functional and safe system that enables large-scale deployment and operation of airborne wind energy installations.
This step is long overdue. With its inclusion in the 2024 Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), the technology is already recognised as being of “overriding public interest.” To fully realise the sector’s enormous potential for the energy transition and economic growth, appropriate regulatory conditions must now be defined to enable permits and ensure investment security.
If suitable regulations are established, Germany could foster a thriving new industry with global export potential. The timing of this political initiative is supported by a recent study by DIW Econ, which finds that domestic development of airborne wind energy could generate approximately 13,300 jobs and a gross value added of €1.3 billion per gigawatt of installed capacity. Over the next decade, cumulative economic benefits could reach €10.5 billion, representing a major opportunity for industry, SMEs, and regional economic development.
Kristian Petrick, Secretary General of Airborne Wind Europe, commented:
“As the European association for airborne wind energy, we welcome the Bundesrat initiative. Establishing a regulatory framework is key to enabling AWE projects from all manufacturers and technologies. Only then can the economic potential of this technology truly be realised in Germany and across Europe.”
Mark Hoppe, Board Member of Airborne Wind Europe and Vice President and Public Affairs & Business Development at SkySails Power, added:
“The German airborne wind energy sector is world-leading and ready for the market. Policymakers must now create an appropriate permitting framework to secure Germany’s pioneering position in this future industry. The successful Bundesrat initiative is an important step, and the federal government should act to ensure the AWES sector remains in Germany.”
Florian Breipohl, CEO of EnerKíte, emphasized:
“Airborne wind energy holds enormous potential for both the energy transition and Germany’s economic development. A systematic permitting framework would allow numerous projects to be implemented in a very short time.”
With the Bundesrat’s decision, Germany has taken a decisive step towards unlocking the full potential of airborne wind energy. By establishing a clear and technology-specific regulatory framework, the country can not only accelerate the deployment of AWE but also secure its position as a global leader in this innovative sector. For industry, investors, and policymakers as well, the path is now set for a sustainable, economically impactful, and technologically advanced energy future, one where airborne wind energy plays a key role in meeting climate goals and driving regional growth.