Coalition Aims to Unlock Tens of Billions for the UK Economy Through Wind Turbine Reuse and Refurbishment
Strathclyde University is helping drive a new coalition aimed at creating a circular supply chain for renewables in the UK. The initiative could generate tens of billions of pounds for the UK economy and create over 20,000 jobs by 2035, while preventing more than 800,000 tonnes of parts from being scrapped.
The Coalition for Wind Industry Circularity (CWIC) currently includes the University of Strathclyde, the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), SSE Renewables, and Renewable Parts Ltd.
Building a Circular Economy for Wind Energy
Typically, failed or end-of-life wind turbine parts are replaced with new components, with old parts often scrapped. CWIC aims to change this by establishing a UK-based industry focused on refurbishment, re-engineering, and re-use of onshore and offshore wind components — a move critical for meeting net-zero targets, enhancing energy security, and boosting local economies.
Analysis by BVG Associates found that around 120,000 wind turbines are expected to be operational across Europe by 2035. Developing refurbishment capabilities for just 10 components per turbine could be worth almost £10 billion to the UK economy between 2025 and 2035, with potential for even greater impact by servicing additional markets.
Environmental and Economic Impact
The report concluded that:
- Over 20,000 UK jobs could be created by 2035.
- More than 800,000 tonnes of turbine parts could be prevented from ending up as scrap.
- Billions of pounds in economic value could be generated by expanding refurbishment capabilities.
CWIC also released the most extensive research ever undertaken on the barriers to circularity in the wind industry. The study, conducted by the University of Strathclyde and NMIS, revealed widespread support for the circular economy but challenges in implementation, which CWIC aims to address.
Launch Event Highlights
At CWIC’s launch event in Glasgow, global wind turbine manufacturers — including Vestas, Siemens Gamesa, GE Renewables, Nordex, and Enercon — participated in a panel discussion chaired by Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables. The discussion focused on shared challenges and the urgent need for greater collaboration across the sector.
Statements from Coalition Leaders
Sir Jim McDonald, Vice Chancellor and Principal, University of Strathclyde:
“The University plays a leading role in delivering world-leading research with a distinctive approach to collaboration across industry, public sector, and academia. With the University-operated NMIS, we are able to help Scotland and the wider UK address the manufacturing and engineering challenges that will support the transition to net-zero, while preparing businesses for digital transformation and adopting new technology.”
Stephen Wheeler, Managing Director, SSE Renewables:
“Circularity is good for business, good for the economy, good for society, and good for the planet. SSE Renewables, together with our partners the University of Strathclyde and Renewable Parts, created CWIC to drive this agenda forward. We are determined to lead by example on a global platform.”
James Barry, CEO, Renewable Parts:
“Our collective commitment to net zero means parts reuse must become the norm, not the exception. By rigorously applying circular economy philosophy, we can develop the technology to routinely remanufacture used parts and reduce carbon intensity. CWIC provides the opportunity for more industry-wide collaboration, creating enormous environmental and economic benefits for generations to come.”
Next Steps
CWIC has outlined a ‘greenprint’ for the next 12 months, five years, and beyond, with clear ambitions to move swiftly and collaboratively to secure economic and environmental gains for the UK renewables sector.
