Wind Energy

Suzlon signs framework contract for up to 250 MW for French wind farm projects

Suzlon Group-subsidiary, REpower Systems SE, has signed a framework contract with Maïa Eolis, a subsidiary of Maïa Group and GDF Suez, for the supply of up to 250 megawatts (MW) for onshore wind power in France.

The wind turbines project is scheduled for delivery between 2012 and 2015. The agreement strengthens the strategic alliance started with the first contract signed in 2004.

The contract comprises REpower’s best-selling wind turbines – the MM82 and MM92 – with a nominal power of 2 MW, and the new REpower 3.4M104 and the 3.2M114 with 3.4 and 3.2 MW rated power respectively. The 3 MW series is the company’s latest onshore development for wind farm sites with medium to low wind speeds.

Mr. Andreas Nauen, CEO – REpower Systems SE, said on the agreement: “We are delighted that Maïa Eolis has confirmed REpower as strategic provider for wind turbines in the coming years. This agreement is the start of the breakthrough of the REpower 3.XM series in France, after the successful ramp-up in other European markets. Moreover, our 3.XM series ideally suits the conditions on the French wind market.”

Mr. Tulsi Tanti, Chairman – Suzlon Group, said: “This is an important agreement for the Group, it underscores our competitive product offerings and our strong positioning in what is a key market for wind energy in Europe.”

The Suzlon Group is ranked as the world’s fifth largest wind turbine supplier, in terms of cumulative installed capacity, at the end of 2010. The company’s global spread extends across Asia, Australia, Europe, Africa and North and South America with over 18,000 MW of wind energy capacity installed in 28 countries, operations across 32 countries and a workforce of over 13,000.

The Group offers one of the most comprehensive product portfolios – ranging from sub-megawatt on-shore wind turbines at 600 Kilowatts (KW), to the world’s largest commercial 6.15 MW offshore wind turbine – with a vertically integrated, low-cost, manufacturing base. The Group – headquartered at Suzlon One Earth in Pune, India – comprises Suzlon Energy Limited and its subsidiaries, including REpower Systems SE. 

Wind power in France

1997: 10 MW
1998: 21 MW
1999: 25 MW
2000: 68 MW
2001: 95 MW
2002: 148 MW
2003: 248 MW
2004: 386 MW
2005: 757 MW
2006: 1.567 MW
2007: 2.455 MW
2008: 3.404 MW
2009: 4.492 MW
2010: 5.660 MW
2011: 6.800 MW

www.suzlon.com