The joint conference and exhibition has been running since 2008. Just recently it expanded its scope to include offshore wind power. This move reflects the Chinese central government’s ambitious goals for offshore wind, and made the event even more relevant for Norway and Norwegian businesses.
Photo: Pål Arne KastmannManufacturing expertise meets offshore know-how
The Norwegian wind cluster has its roots in Norway’s long traditions within the maritime and offshore oil and gas sectors. Norwegian companies have particularly strong know-how in the parts of the value chain that require offshore operations.
This has proven to be a good match with China’s wind industry, which is strong in the manufacturing of turbines and certain other components, but relatively weak on offshore equipment and services.
Therefore, the potential for co-operation is great:
Norwegian companies may, firstly, take part in China’s ambitious plans for developing offshore and onshore wind domestically; and secondly, explore potential partnerships with Chinese companies in the areas of manufacturing, commercialization and product development.
Created new business opportunities
The global wind market is growing rapidly. Several of the Norwegian companies reported that the event had generated opportunities and leads for future business. A couple of the companies reported that they may collaborate with Chinese firms.
The Norwegian presence at China Wind Power 2011 was co-organized by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Beijing, the Royal Norwegian Consulate General in Guangzhou and Innovation Norway.