Chinese turbine maker Ming Yang plans to build the UK’s largest wind turbine manufacturing facility in Scotland, investing up to £1.5 billion and creating as many as 1,500 jobs. The company has shortlisted the Ardersier green freeport near Inverness as its preferred site, with first production targeted for late 2028.
Phase one would see up to £750 million invested to establish core manufacturing, followed by expansion to develop an offshore wind industry ecosystem around the hub. Ming Yang says it has been in discussion with both the Scottish and UK governments for two years.
Aman Wang, Ming Yang’s UK chief executive, said: “We firmly believe that by moving forward with our plans to create jobs, skills and a supply chain in the UK, we can make this country the global hub for offshore wind technology. We fully support the government’s mission to become a clean energy superpower.”
The proposal has prompted debate over national security and market fairness. Last November, Conservative MP Nick Timothy urged ministers to block investment from what he described as hostile states, arguing that Ming Yang benefits from substantial subsidies in China and raising concerns about energy and security implications.
UK Energy Secretary Michael Shanks said he would encourage investment, while a UK government spokesperson added that any decision will be consistent with national security. The Scottish Government welcomed Ardersier’s selection as the preferred location, calling the port strategically important to the growth of the offshore wind sector, while noting the investment remains subject to UK government approval.
If approved, the project would strengthen domestic turbine manufacturing capacity, support Scotland’s offshore wind ambitions and anchor a new supply chain around the Moray Firth.
Chinese firm plans £1.5bn turbine plant in Scotland appeared first on Energy Live News.