Production of small wind turbines moves from Denmark to central Glasgow - potential to provide up to 80 Jobs
Enterprise Minister Jim Mather today formally opened the Gaia-Wind Manufacturing, Design and Distribution Hub.
With production moving to Scotland from Arhus in Denmark, the project is on line to:
• Manufacture around 350 turbines per year in its first year
• Provide around 80 manufacturing and distribution jobs over time and
• Inject an estimated £5 million into the Scottish economy
Just two months after announcing the project, world leading Small Wind turbine manufacturer Gaia-Wind Ltd have completed the start up of their state of the art facility and turbines are already rolling off the line.
Managing Director Johnnie Andringa said:
"We are off to a fantastic start: The plant is up and running in record time and we are currently producing four turbines per week. We want to be producing more than twice that many by the end of the year.
"Wherever appropriate we look to source parts and services locally and around Scotland. We believe that this high-tech, export focussed business operation will both enhance the skills base in Scotland for Renewable Energy and strengthen the market for locally based distributors, suppliers and services.
"If the business environment continues to be positive we could well create more than 80 jobs in our company and immediate service and supply chain. Within the next 2 years we expect jobs at local partners and suppliers (transport, electronics, steel fabrication, dealers and contractors) to exceed the in-house number of jobs."
Jim Mather said: "I am impressed with Gaia-Wind’s rapid development, ambitious growth plans and commitment to use the local supply chain. Gaia-Wind’s decision to expand its Scottish presence and invest in this impressive new Glasgow facility is testament to the skills of the workforce and the strength of our renewables sector.
Single installation turbines are an important part of the diverse mix of energy sources and Gaia-Wind’s success helps fuel demand for small scale projects to allow people to power their homes, businesses and farms."
The 15,000 sq ft workshop plus 5000 sq ft office space in High Craighall Road, Port Dundas in Glasgow, houses a facility for a rapidly growing business with complete integration of all aspects of the process from R&D, design engineering, production and testing, as well as global distribution and supply chain management.
The unique Gaia-Wind 133-11kW turbine is specifically designed for moderate wind speeds. The machine’s big two blade rotor with 133sqm swept area generates better value than all competing machines, with payback often below five years.
Welcoming Enterprise Minister Jim Mather and Scottish Enterprise Chief Executive Lena Wilson to the opening Andringa said: "Against the background of what has been a tough investment environment the support of the Scottish Government in championing renewables and the tangible and expert support of Scottish Enterprise have been vital for Gaia-Wind moving to Glasgow.
Lena Wilson said: "Gaia-Wind is a successful, innovative and ambitious company which recognises Scotland’s strengths as a key location for low carbon developments.
"We’re delighted the company has managed to get its facility up and running so quickly and is already producing turbines, a testament to its strong and determined leadership team. We look forward to continuing to work together to realise Gaia-Wind’s future growth plans and further strengthen its presence in Scotland."
