MHI Vestas has entered into a contract to source high-voltage switchgear from Taiwan, extend existing supply chain commitments and become the first offshore wind turbine supplier to localize switchgear.
With the participation of local Taiwanese producer, Shihlin Electric and Engineering Corporation (SEEC), MHI Vestas has signed a purchasing agreement with Mitsubishi Electric Europe to supply switchgear for upcoming offshore wind projects in Taiwan.
The purchase agreement is expected to allow Mitsubishi Electric and SEEC to build expertise to prepare for potential exports to the wider Asia-Pacific (APAC) region by supplying MHI Vestas’ Taiwanese offshore wind projects.
High-voltage (66kV) switchgear, a key electrical component in offshore wind turbines to help control and protect electrical equipment, will be assembled and tested at SEEC’s Hsinchu factory, with first delivery in 2022 for projects to be installed in 2023 and 2024.
“The fact that we will be able to source switchgear locally in Taiwan is a significant achievement for MHI Vestas and for the development of the local offshore wind supply chain in-country. We will continue delivering the leading localisation plan in Taiwan in conjunction with our local partners, and we look forward to working with Mitsubishi Electric and SEEC on switchgear production, helping them to prepare for export throughout the APAC region.“
Maida Zahirovic, MHI Vestas’ Taiwan business director.
“Working closely with our reputable partner SEEC in Taiwan is really a great opportunity. We are committed to contributing to Taiwan’s sustainable society, by supplying localised switchgear to MHI Vestas in its Taiwanese projects.“
Toshimitsu Ito, senior general manager of Mitsubishi Electric.
“With this memorable step, Shihlin is grateful to be a supply chain partner for Mitsubisi Electric and to be able to contribute to the future development of renewable energy in Taiwan.”
Yang Tsun-Ching, vice chief operations officer of SEEC.
MHI Vestas has been awarded firm contracts for the Changfang and Xidao projects developed by CIP (total combined capacity of 589 MW), as well as preferred supplier status for the 300 MW Zhong Neng project developed by CSC and CIP.
