Chinese wind turbine supplier Goldwind probed in EU over alleged foreign subsidies

The European Commission has opened an in-depth investigation into possible foreign subsidies that may have given Chinese wind turbine manufacturer Goldwind an unfair advantage in the European Union’s internal market. The probe follows a preliminary investigation into several Chinese wind turbine suppliers.

The European Commission said it had started a preliminary investigation in April 2024 into several companies active in the EU wind sector, including Goldwind, by sending them requests for information. The probe was launched under the EU’s Foreign Subsidies Regulation (FSR).

Its findings indicate that Goldwind may have been granted foreign subsidies that distort the EU internal market. Goldwind is active in the EU through subsidiaries, including one called Vensys, according to a press release from the commission.

Foreign subsidies may harm competition in the EU wind turbine market

The possible foreign subsidies include grants, preferential tax measures, and preferential financing in the form of loans, which may improve Goldwind’s competitive position and negatively affect competition for the supply of wind turbines and related services in the EU.

Goldwind turbines have been installed across the region tracked by Balkan Green Energy News, including in North Macedonia, Greece, Romania, and Turkey.

In a statement, Goldwind said it would cooperate with the relevant EU authorities throughout the investigation, adding that it hoped that fact-based and constructive communication with the European Commission would help clarify the facts.

Goldwind says it will cooperate with the authorities and that its EU business is currently unaffected

The company also stressed that currently, its business activities in the EU market continue to operate normally, and that it remains dedicated to providing its customers and partners with consistent, high-quality service and support.