Global Wind Turbine Supply Chain 2014 Report Available at MAKE Consulting

MAKE Consulting issued a new report called Global Wind Turbine Supply Chain 2014. The 110+ page report offers comprehensive insights into supply-demand dynamics across all key wind turbine components based on global and regional analysis of sourcing trends, production capacities and competitive landscapes. 

Global Wind Turbine Supply Chain 2014 Report Available at MAKE Consulting

Shifting demand and overcapacity of critical wind turbine components continues to challenge the global wind energy supply base. Divestment of production assets and successful engagement in the O&M sector have allowed several turbine OEMs to return to profitability; but the road ahead demands a delicate balance between achieving cost leadership, maximizing productivity, hedging against FX risks and capturing growth opportunities in emerging markets.

Key Points:

  • Strategic component supply of blades, nacelles and gearboxes is approximately 50%, 80% and 90% in excess of global demand, respectively
  • Improved fiscal health of turbine OEMs will facilitate strategic CAPEX decisions in emerging markets, opening the door for strategic suppliers to follow suit
  • Western turbine OEMs and subcomponent suppliers are drawn to new growth markets such as Brazil, but meeting local content rules remains a critical challenge
  • Component supply for turbines in the 1.5MW-3MW model range continues to trend towards commoditization
  • The call for larger components to service European markets favour more experienced European suppliers over lower cost Asian competitors in the near term
Press release, August 13, 2014; Image: flickr