Verbund AG expands wind portfolio amid market volatility
Verbund AG, the Vienna‑based utility that integrates generation, transmission and distribution of electricity, has announced a significant expansion of its wind‑power capacity. The company secured contracts for up to 700 MW of Nordex turbines, a move that underscores its strategy to diversify beyond hydro‑electric and thermal generation.
Nordex deal details
The agreements, signed on 19 January 2026, involve the procurement of a large number of wind turbines from German manufacturer Nordex. The total contracted capacity of 700 MW will be spread across several sites in Austria and potentially in neighboring countries, aligning with the European Union’s targets for renewable energy penetration. Verbund plans to install these turbines in phases, beginning with projects that can be commissioned within the next 12 months.
Impact on the company’s portfolio
Verbund currently relies heavily on hydroelectric plants, which account for roughly 60 % of its generation mix. The addition of wind capacity represents a 15‑20 % increase in renewable output and reduces dependence on seasonal water flow. Analysts note that the move also positions the company to meet the Austrian government’s 2030 renewable targets more comfortably.
Market context
The announcement came as the Vienna Stock Exchange’s ATX index experienced a sharp downturn, falling 0.70 % on 22 January 2026 to 5 403,32 points. Despite the broader market weakness, Verbund’s stock closed at €61 on 20 January, only slightly below its 52‑week low of €59,30. The company’s price‑earnings ratio of 12.28 remains within the sector average, suggesting that investors view the expansion as a value‑adding investment rather than a speculative gamble.
Investor perspective
A report released on 22 January 2026 by Finanzen.net highlighted that investors who had purchased Verbund shares five years earlier would have seen a moderate decline in value. The article provided a retrospective look at the company’s share performance since its initial listing on 22 January 2021, emphasizing the importance of long‑term holdings in utility stocks that benefit from stable dividends and gradual growth.
Broader industry trends
The wind‑power expansion aligns with a broader shift in the European utilities sector toward decarbonisation. Similar moves have been seen in neighbouring countries, where state‑backed incentives for renewable projects have accelerated deployment. Verbund’s partnership with Nordex is expected to generate significant employment opportunities during the construction phase and will likely create a new supply chain for turbine maintenance in the region.
Conclusion
Verbund AG’s acquisition of 700 MW of Nordex wind turbines marks a pivotal step in its energy transition strategy. While the Austrian market faces short‑term volatility, the company’s diversified generation mix and commitment to renewable expansion position it for sustainable growth in the coming decade.
