Siemens Gamesa's New Leader Eyes Longer Development Cycles for Onshore Turbines
Siemens Energy's troubled wind turbine division, Siemens Gamesa, is set for a change in leadership. Incoming CEO Vinod Philip has signaled a potential shift in strategy, focusing on longer development cycles for onshore wind turbines to address quality issues.
Shortcuts Blamed for Current Crisis
Siemens Gamesa has been grappling with a significant crisis attributed to quality problems in its latest onshore turbines. Industry experts point to rapid development cycles and insufficient testing as major contributing factors.
Offshore Wind as a Benchmark
"Offshore wind platforms typically require five to seven years for development," explains Philip, who is slated to take the helm from Jochen Eickholt in August 2024. He acknowledges that the onshore sector operates under different timeframes but argues that the current two-year development cycle, coupled with inadequate supply chain development, is overly ambitious.
Finding the Right Balance
Philip's proposed solution suggests a potential move towards longer onshore development cycles. This approach aims to strike a better balance between efficiency and quality control, ensuring turbines meet the required standards before hitting the market.
The Road Ahead for Siemens Gamesa
The new leadership's focus on onshore development reflects a critical juncture for Siemens Gamesa. Addressing quality issues and regaining customer trust will be crucial for the company's future success. By potentially extending development cycles, Siemens Gamesa could prioritize quality and long-term reliability, ultimately strengthening its position in the wind energy sector.
Source: Reuters
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