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The wake effect: As wind farms expand, some can ‘steal’ each others’ wind


As wind farms expand, some can accidentally "steal" each others' wind – causing worries over some countries' energy transition to net zero.

A new research project in the UK, launched this spring, aims to provide a clearer picture of the wake effect to help governments and developers improve their planning, and avoid disputes. A 2025 UK government policy paper highlights the need to better understand wake effects in this context, describing them as an emerging issue that creates uncertainty for offshore wind farms. Finserås warns that unless the problem of managing wake effects is addressed, it could result in legal and political conflicts and make it harder to invest in wind energy.

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