Bridging the Gap between Onshore and Offshore Innovations by the European Wind Power Supply Industry: A Survey-Based Analysis

Abstract

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of investment decisions and shifts related to onshore and offshore wind power supply chains. Insights about cost reductions are generated from analyzing project financing data, using a 'European learning curve' derived from a European learning system. In doing so, we take into account the limited number of leading technology suppliers in the global market. Experience curve analysis and insights from qualitative research are used to discuss the market entry barriers to the offshore wind power market. We also use data generated from a questionnaire survey circulated among the European wind power industry. From the analysis we conclude that the adoption of offshore technology has been evolving over time when companies from closely related industries, and not start-up companies, started to enter the offshore market. For policy-makers, it is essential to acknowledge that sophisticated industry structures need to be established, and that barriers to adoption among the players in the onshore supply industry, which seem to differ, can be effectively removed.