A new EU report says that onshore wind power is cheaper than coal, gas or nuclear energy when the costs of ‘external’ factors like air quality, toxicity to humans and climate change are taken into account.

It also explains that onshore wind power costs roughly 105 euros per MWh, while gas and coal can cost up to about 164 euros and 233 euros respectively. Nuclear power, offshore wind and solar energy are all comparably inexpensive generators, at roughly 125 euros per MWh.

Justin Wilkes, deputy CEO of the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA), says: “This report highlights the true cost of Europe’s dependence on fossil fuels. Renewables are regularly denigrated for being too expensive and a drain on the taxpayer. Not only does the document show the alarming cost of coal, it also presents onshore wind
as both cheaper and more environment-friendly.”

The EU’s energy commissioner, Gunther Oettinger, said that the report is only “a first step” to filling gaps in our knowledge about the nature of energy subsidies, and more
reports are likely in the months ahead.