The French energy and infrastructure giant, Alstom, will build a new facility in Bahia (Brazil) dedicated to the assembly of wind turbines with an annual capacity of up to 300 MW per annum. Under the terms and conditions of the memorandum, the new wind turbine assembly facility, which will cost approximately €20 million to construct, could start operating in early 2011.
"With the installation of its first wind turbine assembly in the country, Alstom confirms its strategy in the region and its aim to become a key player in the Brazilian wind market. Brazil’s energy market has great potential for the production of alternative electricity, and Alstom has the technology and expertise needed to contribute to the development of the wind energy sector,” said Philippe Cochet, President of Alstom Hydro.
“Alstom, with its global renewables portfolio, is consolidating its leadership in the Brazilian renewable energy market. This wind turbine assembly facility, Alstom’s first in the country, puts us firmly on the Brazilian wind market map,” added Marcos Costa, Head of Power, Alstom Brazil.
Thanks to its acquisition of Spanish wind turbine manufacturer, Ecotècnia, in 2007, Alstom offers a wide range of wind turbines. It has also developed its unique Alstom Pure Torque™ drive train concept that protects wind turbine gearboxes. Building on the highly-recognised technology of Ecotècnia, Alstom intends to accelerate its growth in the wind market and this latest move forms part of Alstom's international expansion programme.
"The symbolism of the creation of Alstom’s first wind turbine assembly facility in the State of Bahia is very significant. Besides being an international icon in areas of transport and energy, this is a milestone in our integration into the renewable energy industry. We will have the opportunity to attract investment and technology transfer in the wind industry, and add new tax revenue and more jobs for Bahia," highlighted the Brazilian Secretary of Industry, Commerce and Mining, James Correia.
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