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Germany Implements Strategies to Control Competition from Chinese Wind Turbine Manufacturers

BMWK's action plan aims to bolster EU wind energy, ensuring fair competition and reducing reliance on Chinese suppliers.
Mingyang Aphae

The German Ministry for Economy and Energy has introduced measures to level the playing field between European and international wind turbine manufacturers, particularly addressing Chinese suppliers.

The measures, outlined in a five-point action plan released on October 17, were discussed at a meeting with German Minister Robert Habeck and representatives of European wind turbine manufacturers and suppliers the day before.

The plan focuses on wind turbine cybersecurity, fair competition, reducing dependencies on critical components, ramping up production financing, and revising project financing by German and EU banks.

Regarding competition from Chinese suppliers, the action plan notes that over 90% of permanent magnets essential for wind turbines originate from China. The plan proposes developing an industry roadmap to gradually reduce this dependency by late 2024 or early 2025.

The measures also include revising financing from EU and German banks for projects using Chinese wind technology to ensure alignment with national and European industrial policies and ESG standards.

The BMWK aims to garner support to review the strategies of KfW, EBRD, EIB, and other financial instruments concerning Chinese financing.

To enhance European manufacturers’ competitiveness, BMWK plans to provide financial support of around EUR 16 billion by 2030 for new and expanded wind turbine factories, partly through guarantees by KfW and complementary offers from the European Investment Bank.

The action plan promotes using the EU’s Foreign Subsidies Regulation to maintain fair competition, with the EU Commission already investigating Chinese suppliers.

Efforts to improve cybersecurity include expanding the list of companies required to meet security standards and inspecting certain IT components in wind turbines.

Following the plan’s release, WindEurope acknowledged the growing presence of Chinese manufacturers in Europe and praised Germany’s efforts to support the European wind energy sector.

WindEurope emphasized the importance of protecting the local industry against subsidized prices and ensuring data security, noting the strategic value of turbine sensor data.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

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Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



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