Brussels is contemplating launching an investigation into China's use of subsidies to support its wind turbine manufacturers, amid growing concerns that inexpensive Chinese imports are posing a significant threat to European wind power companies. Acting Competition Commissioner Didier Reynders has stated that if there is compelling evidence of excessive aid provided by China, a formal investigation akin to the one conducted on electric vehicles could be initiated.
This potential probe into Chinese wind turbine components marks the second significant action taken against China by the European Commission in as many months. In September, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an inquiry into unfair practices within the electric vehicle market, a move that drew a strong response from Beijing. Despite concerns over possible retaliation, EU officials argue that there are substantial grounds for investigating wind turbine parts.
These discussions about the investigation coincide with a planned visit to China by Josep Borrell, the EU's Foreign Policy Chief, and Kadri Simson, the bloc's Energy Commissioner. Previously, Thierry Breton, the EU's Internal Market Commissioner, had called for an investigation into wind turbines manufactured in China, citing aggressive strategies employed by Chinese manufacturers to penetrate European markets.
Brussels has already imposed tariffs on Chinese companies' glass fiber fabrics used in wind turbine blades. Within the industry, there is a growing unease about the EU's increasing reliance on Chinese green technologies. WindEurope, a prominent trade body representing the European wind industry, has expressed concerns that Europe's clean technology could be predominantly produced outside the continent, leading to a potentially problematic dependence on Chinese clean energy equipment.
In parallel with these considerations, Brussels is developing comprehensive proposals to bolster the wind industry further. These proposals include providing guidance to member states on offering direct financial support to the sector and enhancing auction designs for wind farms.
