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22. January 2024

Divide and rule: GE and Vestas now masters of US onshore wind for ‘foreseeable future’

GE Vernova and Vestas dominate the US onshore wind market, with their combined market share exceeding 90% in recent years, driven by major projects like the 3.5GW SunZia. GE’s 3.6-154 turbine and Vestas’ V163-145, both recently introduced, showcase their technological edge and strong relationships with developers and financiers, keeping rival OEMs at bay. While Siemens Gamesa struggles with quality issues and market share decline, Nordex remains a marginal player with limited order volumes, further solidifying the duopoly of GE and Vestas.

The US onshore market, the world’s second largest, has seen fluctuations due to inconsistent federal tax credits, making it challenging for newer entrants to establish themselves. However, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is providing long-term stability, enabling companies like GE and Vestas to capitalize on predictable demand and expand their manufacturing capabilities. Analysts predict annual installations of 11-14GW through the decade, sustaining growth for dominant players.

Chinese OEMs face significant barriers in entering the US market due to anti-China sentiment, IRA restrictions, and the risk of countervailing duties. These challenges, combined with GE and Vestas’ strong foothold, make it unlikely for Chinese manufacturers to gain significant market share in the US onshore wind sector.