| Abstract [eng] |
In recent years, wind energy has become an increasingly important part of renewable energy development both in Europe and in Lithuania. Countries seek to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, strengthen energy security, and achieve climate goals; therefore, the development of wind energy has become particularly relevant. Although Lithuania is characterized by favorable natural conditions and a clear strategic direction, the development of the wind energy sector is progressing more slowly than it could. This reveals a significant impact of external environmental factors and emphasizes the need for their systematic analysis. The object of this study is external environmental factors influencing the development of the wind energy sector. The aim of the study is to assess the impact of external environmental factors on the development of the wind energy sector. The objectives of the study are: (1) to analyze the development trends and challenges of the wind energy sector in Europe and Lithuania; (2) to theoretically substantiate external environmental factors and their impact on wind energy development; (3) to develop a research methodology for assessing the impact of external environmental factors on the development of the wind energy sector; and (4) to conduct a study on the impact of environmental factors on the development of the Lithuanian wind energy sector. The research methods applied include systematic analysis of scientific literature, descriptive statistical analysis, correlation analysis, regression analysis, and content analysis. A mixed research model combining quantitative and qualitative analysis was applied in this study. In the case of Lithuania, it was found that wind energy development is statistically significantly influenced by GDP growth and the share of renewable energy, while other macroeconomic indicators – such as inflation, unemployment rate, energy efficiency, dependence on imports, and net domestic greenhouse gas emissions – do not have a statistically significant impact. In the case of Denmark, wind energy indicators are characterized by a very high level of stability and sector maturity, while the impact of external factors is considerably weaker. No statistically significant relationships were identified between the development of the wind energy sector and dependence on imports or energy efficiency, and relationships with other analyzed indicators were also not statistically significant. The qualitative study revealed that the main barriers to wind energy development in Lithuania include the complexity of permitting procedures, opposition from local communities, regulatory barriers, and limitations of the electricity grid. These factors help explain why sector growth remains limited even under favorable economic conditions. The mixed-methods study confirms the research problem that the development of Lithuania’s wind energy sector is not as rapid as the country’s potential would allow, with progress primarily constrained by external environmental factors whose management requires clearer state policy and more effective regulatory solutions. A comparative analysis with Denmark showed that Lithuania has opportunities for faster development; however, this requires strengthening institutional capacity, increasing social acceptance, and creating a more mature wind energy market environment. |
