Vattenfall expands wind projects in Germany, Denmark amid Swedish local protests

State-owned utility Vattenfall announced a 165 billion‑kronor investment programme through 2030, with about 68 % of the 92 billion‑kronor growth capital earmarked for projects abroad. The bulk of the spending is directed to Germany, where the company has previously incurred multi‑billion‑kronor losses, and to two new offshore wind farms in Denmark. Finance chief Kerstin Ahlfont said the firm is “constantly learning and taking everything into account when weighing the risks.”

In Sweden, Vattenfall’s plan to build a wind farm of up to 30 turbines on a 300‑metre‑high ridge in the rural Västra Tjust area has sparked opposition from local landowners. Residents argue the development would damage the landscape, lower property values and impose costs on those who live there, while compensation schemes have largely benefited owners who do not reside in the area. Vattenfall has pledged to continue dialogue with the community, but critics say earlier consultations felt more like sales meetings than genuine listening sessions.