China could be top wind market in three years: Vestas

BEIJING (Reuters) – China could become the world’s top wind power market in three to five years but will grow faster if it reforms its subsidy system, executives of major wind turbine maker Vestas said on Friday.

Chief Executive Ditlev Engel, in China to open the second and third in a series of seven plants due to come on line by the first quarter of 2008, said he was convinced Vestas could compete with cheaper local rivals on quality.


But the company, the world’s biggest wind turbine manufacturer, made its $80 million investment with an eye on both Chinese and export markets. Turbines not sold in China could be integrated into Vestas’ global supply chain, he added.

“China will keep growing now, as a very important part of the wind power business, not just on the sales side but also on the sourcing,” Engel said in a group interview.

Asked when Beijing would become the top market, he said: “Within three to five years, we estimate.”

Reuters