Would developing countries import U.S. wind turbines?
They will import a few units, but will ventually want to move to local production of the equipment. Small wind turbines are not difficult to manufacture and they lend themselves well to technology transfer. However, they are very difficult to develop and many companies and agencies have underestimated the cost and time required to develop a reliable small wind turbine. It seems a lot easier than it really is. A 5 megawatt per year small wind turbine production facility would cost under $3 million, including licensing fees, which compares favorably to the $5-10 million figures that have been quoted for photovoltaic factories of this capacity. We believe that local manufacturing, under license or through a joint venture, is necessary if widespread utilization is to be pursued. The developing country benefits from reduced foreign exchange requirements, better support capabilities, local economic development and, usually, lower production costs. The U.S. company benefits from fees, royalti
