The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region's wind energy supply chain must undergo significant expansion to meet the region's net-zero commitments, according to a report by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) in partnership with ERM. The study, titled Mission Critical: Building the Asia Pacific Wind Energy Supply Chain for a 1.5°C World, highlights the urgent need for collaborative efforts from industry, government, civil society, and the financial sector to address supply chain gaps.
Despite recent growth in wind capacity, the report finds that the region is falling short of the pace required to triple renewable energy by 2030, a critical target for meeting climate goals. The APAC region is expected to account for 61% of new global wind capacity between 2024 and 2030, with onshore wind capacity projected to double to 1,084 GW and offshore wind capacity expected to reach 122 GW by the end of the decade.
GWEC CEO Benjamin Backwell emphasized the stakes, stating, “Excluding China, the region is unlikely to meet the level of wind power installation required to meet climate targets. Action on the supply chain is action to increase renewable energy generation – and nothing is more urgent than accelerating wind power installations across the APAC region.”
The report identifies high supply chain concentration risk and outlines the need for political commitment and regional collaboration to close the gap. Recommendations include scaling up the local supply chain, leveraging trade agreements, ensuring credible markets, and fostering public support for capacity building.
ERM partner Breanne Gellatly noted, “With urgent action, APAC's supply chain can be scaled to meet this decade's net-zero targets and 3xRenewables ambitions. Investments made now will create a sustainable and resilient supply chain, setting the stage for growth beyond 2030.”
The report also underscores the importance of transitioning industries like mining and shipbuilding to support the wind sector. It features case studies from six key markets—Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, South Korea, and Vietnam—highlighting opportunities for scaling up wind energy capabilities.
Launched at the GWEC Wind Energy Summit 2024 in Incheon, South Korea, the report serves as a blueprint for policymakers to turn ambitious targets into actionable strategies, ensuring that APAC plays a central role in the global energy transition.
