Danish Experience in Wind Energy - Local Financing

The historical turning point of the wind energy development was the 1973 energy crisis, which caused something like a shock to the Danes in their life of affluence. At the same time the debate on utilizing nuclear power in Denmark worked as a forceful stimulant for bringing alternative energy sources onto the agenda. The slogan « sun and wind » made it possible for the many people who were active in the movement against nuclear power to say not only « No », but also « Yes » to an alternative.

The energy crisis caused the set up of two scenarios. One was the movement « from above » originating from government and legislator initiatives, seconded by research at the atomic power experimental station Risø, mastered by the big central power stations.

But at the same time a movement « from below » arose, rooted in a new public awareness of energy and environment. Experiments were made and experience was exchanged with a will during the latter half of the 1970’s, especially in Central and Western Jutland.