In 2016, wind contributed 37.6% to Denmark's electricity consumption total, the lowest share since 2013 (33.2%).
It comes after seven consecutive years of a growing share, from 19.3% in 2008 to 42% in 2015, according to new figures released by transmission system operator Energinet.
"Last year, was one of the least windy in recent times and there has also not been as many new turbines installed, so it is not surprising that 2016 was not a record year," said Energiner energy strategic advisor Carsten Vittrup.
The Danish Wind Industry Association said 2015 and 2016 were "atypical" years.
"While 2015 was the windiest year since 1994, with winds 14% above normal, 2016 was the least windy in six years, with winds 10% below average," the association said.
Year | Wind share (%) |
2005 | 18.7% |
2006 | 17.0% |
2007 | 19.9% |
2008 | 19.3% |
2009 | 19.4% |
2010 | 22.0% |
2011 | 28.3% |
2012 | 30.1% |
2013 | 33.2% |
2014 | 39.1% |
2015 | 42.0% |
2016 | 37.6% |
source: Energinet.dk
The Danish government has set the target of sourcing 50% of its electricity from wind by 2020.
Energinet said the country was still on track with the addition of Vattenfall's 406MW Horns Rev 3 and 350MW of nearshore projects set to be installed by the end of 2020.
According to Energinet's data, for 317 hours in 2016 production from the country's wind turbines produced more electricity than the country's demand.
"Not maintaining the continued growth is to a certain degree frustrating, but on the other hand, it is a reminder that it is the shifting nature of the wind, which we are world champions at harnessing in Denmark. I am pleased that varying production is not affecting our world-class security of supply that we have in Denmark," said DWIA CEO Jan Hylleberg.