US wind turbine orders reached 2.8 GW in the second quarter of 2026, their highest level since late 2023, as developers accelerated procurement decisions ahead of federal tax credit qualification deadlines.

The figures come from the US Wind Energy Monitor Q3 2026, published by Wood Mackenzie in collaboration with the American Clean Power Association (ACP), which examines recent developments in the US wind market and its growth outlook over the next five years.

According to the consultancy, the increase in orders reflects developers' efforts to secure project eligibility for tax credits before the relevant deadlines, amid uncertainty surrounding the future of renewable energy incentives.

Wood Mackenzie maintains 39 GW onshore wind forecast through 2030

Despite political and regulatory challenges, Wood Mackenzie maintains its forecast of 39 GW of new onshore wind capacity through 2030. More than half of the project pipeline for 2026–2028 is already operating or under construction, reducing near-term execution risks.

The report also highlights the commissioning of SunZia, a 3.65 GW wind project in New Mexico, identified by the consultancy as the largest wind project ever built in the United States. Its entry into operation placed the state among the country's leading markets for new wind capacity additions in 2026.

The increase in turbine orders and progress on projects such as SunZia contrast with adjustments in other parts of the industry, particularly wind farm repowering and new offshore wind development.

Offshore wind outlook holds at 5 GW amid ongoing restrictions

In the offshore segment, Wood Mackenzie maintains its forecast of 5 GW of new capacity, with additions concentrated over the next two years as unfavorable policy conditions continue to restrict new developments.

Nevertheless, several advanced projects are progressing. These include Revolution Wind and Sunrise Wind, developed by Ørsted, which advanced testing and foundation construction activities, respectively, during the second quarter.

At the same time, the market has seen further offshore lease relinquishments. According to Wood Mackenzie, federal agreements associated with these transactions have approached US$4 billion, including RWE's exit, valued at US$1.22 billion, the largest recorded to date.

These developments highlight the difficulties facing new offshore wind projects, even as some capacity already under construction continues progressing toward commercial operation.

Repowering forecast cut by 1 GW as new technical challenges emerge

The report also revises expectations for the modernization of existing wind farms. Wood Mackenzie lowered its repowering forecast by 1 GW compared with the previous quarter, reflecting fewer equipment orders than anticipated.

Despite this adjustment, the consultancy notes that tax credits continue to support the renewal of existing installations, alongside opportunities arising from the growing number of projects approaching the end of their operational lives.

Another emerging challenge is the upcoming revision of building codes by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), which is expected to introduce new design requirements for certain wind turbines located in tornado-prone areas.

According to Wood Mackenzie, these requirements could increase wind project construction costs across parts of the United States, depending on site-specific exposure conditions and turbine characteristics.

Overall, the rise in turbine orders to 2.8 GW reflects an acceleration in procurement activity ahead of tax credit deadlines, while onshore capacity forecasts remain stable and offshore wind continues to face obstacles to further expansion.