Flender India Ramps Up Wind Energy Manufacturing to Over 16 Gigawatts
Chennai-based Flender India, a leading supplier in the wind energy sector, has significantly expanded its manufacturing footprint in the country. This strategic move aims to meet the surging demand from domestic markets while mitigating risks associated with geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions.
Massive Capacity Increase and Investment
Andreas Evertz, Group CEO of the Germany-based Flender, revealed that the company has boosted its output capacity from a modest 800 megawatts to an impressive over 16 gigawatts. This expansion is designed to cater to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in India and support exports to key markets such as the US, Australia, and Europe. Over the past four years, Flender has invested more than 100 million euros in enhancing its capabilities, with ongoing investments in component manufacturing and building a robust local ecosystem in India.
Diversified Supply Chain Strategy
When questioned about the impact of geopolitical tensions and the weaponization of supply chains, Evertz emphasized Flender's diversified approach. The company operates across three major hubs in Germany, China, and India, allowing flexibility in sourcing. "In times where the possibility exists to source from any location, we focus on identifying the most cost-effective and optimal places. We have capacity potential at other sites and can leverage that during disruptions," he explained. This strategy enhances resilience, though Evertz noted dependencies in areas like commodities.
Focus on Localization and Export Growth
Flender India is prioritizing localization by manufacturing parts closer to assembly points and has doubled its testing capacity in the country. Evertz expressed optimism about domestic adoption, stating, "We are bullish on domestic demand, which continues to rise. There is a strong push and pull effect from the local Indian market." Additionally, he highlighted India's potential as an export hub, with over 50% of current output geared towards international markets. The company has introduced a 13.5 MW test rig, claimed to be India's largest gearbox testing rig, primarily targeting large offshore turbines for exports, which will also accelerate development for the local market.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Flender operates assembly and testing facilities in Chennai and Walaja, strategically located near global and domestic OEM sites, along with a parts facility in Kharagpur. This infrastructure supports the company's expanded operations and reinforces its commitment to the Indian market.
