US offshore wind industry relies on European steel components, says Empire Energy Partners

As the focus on renewable energy grows, the United States is at a critical juncture in the development of the offshore wind industry. Empire Energy Partners Offshore Wind Division (Empire Energy Offshore) addresses the U.S. wind sector’s dependence on monopiles, TPs, and towers manufactured in Europe.

Dutch company Sif Group is set to start producing monopile and TP foundations for the Empire Wind 1 project next month at its Maasvlakte site in the Netherlands, underscoring the US industry’s reliance on European know-how and manufacturing capabilities.

European expertise

Europe has long been a leader in offshore wind, with advanced manufacturing techniques, economies of scale and specialist facilities that give European manufacturers an advantage. The result is high-quality, cost-effective components that meet the immediate requirements of US projects.

Advantages of European imports

For US developers like Empire Energy Offshore, importing from Europe offers a number of benefits:

Quality and reliability: Proven experience in various marine environments.

Immediate availability: Quick access to meet growing demand.

Technological progress: Use of advanced European techniques and innovations.

Benefits of domestic production

However, developing a domestic wind turbine steel manufacturing industry in the U.S. could provide significant benefits:

Financial benefits: Reduce shipping and customs fees and qualify for tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act.

Supply chain security: Mitigating risks from delivery delays and political tensions.

Economic impact: job creation and local investment.

Environmental benefits: reducing the carbon footprint of transatlantic shipping.

Building a domestic industry

Empire Energy Offshore advocates for a strategic approach to supporting domestic manufacturing capabilities, highlighting partnerships such as US Wind, Inc. with Haizea Wind Group and EEW’s U.S. monopile manufacturing facility

Strategic initiatives

To develop a strong domestic industry, Empire Energy Offshore suggests:

Investments in infrastructure: construction and modernization of facilities and ports.

Government policies and incentives: Use of subsidies, tax breaks and tariffs to support domestic production.

Research and Development: Innovation in production techniques and materials through research and development.

Workforce development: training programmes aimed at creating a skilled workforce.

Market Development: State-level initiatives and corporate investments to stimulate demand.

Environmental protection efforts: eco-friendly production and local sourcing of raw materials to reduce environmental impact.

Looking to the future

Empire Energy Offshore emphasizes the importance of balancing current needs with long-term investment. While importing from Europe provides a temporary solution, building a domestic manufacturing sector is key to sustainable growth. Collaboration, investment, and a shared vision are essential for the United States to become a global leader in renewable energy.

Empire Energy Offshore is committed to leading this transformation, ensuring the sustainability of offshore wind energy in the U.S. for generations to come.

For more information about offshore wind farm projects around the world, click here.