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Export markets open for small wind systems

April 3, 2009

Current economic climate stimulates growth for UK small wind industry

BWEA, UK's leading renewable energy association, indicated today that the export segment of the UK small wind sector is reporting stronger growth due to weakened pound and increase in demand from abroad. The figures due to be released in full at the International Small Wind Conference on 22nd April, organised by BWEA and the Building Research Establishment (BRE), show a doubling of export revenues compared to 2007. The news follow this week's announcement on the increase in financial support for electricity generated by micro and small wind turbines installed in the UK. From 1st of April electricity generated by small turbines qualifies for 2 ROC's.

Alex Murley, BWEA Small Systems Manager: "The small wind sector is demonstrating that the UK can have a world leading low carbon industry. UK small wind system manufacturers have consistently shown that they can compete in world markets. What we need now is action to increase deployment in the UK."

Currently, small wind systems account for over 20 Megawatts of installed wind capacity in the UK. However, according to BWEA estimates the potential of the sector is to deliver 1.3 gigawatts of capacity by 2020, given the right level of policy support.

The BWEA's second Small Wind Systems UK Market Report is expected to announce continued strong growth for the sector in the UK and in the export markets. Since 2005 UK small systems manufacturers have exported over 10 000 small turbines.

"History has shown us that countries like Spain, Denmark, and Germany have vibrant large wind turbine manufacturing industries, because their respective governments supported indigenous markets at an early stage. If sufficiently supported now, the emerging UK small wind industry could supply rapidly expanding world markets for decades to come, delivering UK based jobs, environmental and lucrative economic benefits," concluded Murley.

For more information please contact Alex Murley, BWEA Small Systems Manager on 07772 640 141 or at a.murley@bwea.com or Nick Medic, BWEA Communications Manager on 0207 689 1935/07792 462719 or at n.medic@bwea.com.

NOTES:
1. On the 22nd of April 2009 BWEA and BRE will jointly host the inaugural International Small Wind Conference. Fort more details visit www.iswc2009.com.
2. The British Wind Energy Association is the trade and professional body for the UK wind and marine renewables industries. Formed in 1978, and with 461 corporate members, BWEA is the leading renewable energy trade association in the UK.