LM Wind Power is expanding its Suape facility in Pernambuco, Brazil, to meet growing demand for longer wind turbine blades both locally and globally.
The factory (pictured), which opened at the Suape port complex in Ipojuca City in 2013, has added 200 new staff since August bringing the total number of people employed to 900.
LM Wind said the expansion also includes extensions to building and the installation of new equipment and technologies, which will be implemented in the next few months.
Suape plant director Nilo Maia said: “The Brazilian market has seen slow demand growth for a number of years but is now showing positive signs of recovery.
“2018 marks a new beginning. Energy auctions started again, and the growth of our plant is a response to that, combined with increased demand from export markets. We are optimistic about the future and look forward to welcoming even more colleagues to the team.
“Although we are optimistic about the future in Brazil, the domestic market in particular is characterized by very tough competition. That creates pressure throughout the supply chain.
“We are committed to help our various customers succeed in Brazil, by developing and implementing the newest technology to enhance the performance of our rotor blades while at the same time we are constantly working to reduce our cost base.”
The company said new employees, who come from local communities near the factory, have started 45 days of practical and theoretical training.