In recent years, the number of orders won by Chinese wind power manufacturers in the European market has grown significantly, showing a strong upward momentum. Chinese companies have gradually gained a foothold in Europe by virtue of their price advantages, technological innovations, and fast-response service systems.In 2023, the total number of orders in the EU from Chinese companies such as Goldwind, Mingyang Intelligence, and Yunda reached 1.2GW, and as of mid-July 2024, orders for Chinese-made turbines in Europe had reached 546MW.

With the large-scale entry of Chinese companies, the competitive landscape of the European wind power market has been reshaped and competition has become increasingly fierce. On the one hand, Europe’s urgent need for energy transformation has created an excellent opportunity for the export of Chinese wind power equipment. On the other hand, trade protectionism has become the "Sword of Damocles" hanging over the heads of Chinese companies. The United States and Europe have launched anti-dumping and anti-subsidy investigations on Chinese wind power products many times in the past, setting up high tariff barriers in an attempt to block the entry of Chinese wind power equipment. In addition, the transportation of large wind power equipment is not small, and various risks may be encountered during transportation. Next, let’s discuss the problems of my country’s wind power equipment.Export to EuropeThe specific process and related requirements.

I. Export Process

1. Market Research

Enterprises must have an in-depth understanding of the energy planning, subsidy policy, grid connection standards and other details, accurate positioning of the target market. European countries belong to the same alliance, but there are significant differences in wind power policy, market demand level. Offshore wind power, for example, the United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark and other coastal countries in the North Sea, with rich offshore wind resources, vigorously promote the construction of offshore wind farms, large-capacity, high-reliability offshore wind turbine demand is urgent; and part of the countries in Eastern Europe, subject to the level of economic development and the grid infrastructure, the onshore wind power of the small-scale distributed project is more suitable for its current needs.

2. Confirm cooperation intention and sign contract

We communicated in depth with European customers to understand their specific needs for wind energy equipment, project requirements, expected delivery time and other details, clarified the rights and obligations of both parties, and signed a legally binding export contract.

3. Production and quality inspection

Organize the production of wind energy equipment in accordance with the contract requirements. During the production process, strictly control the quality to ensure that the products meet the relevant standards and customer requirements. Carry out various quality inspections and tests, such as performance tests, safety tests, etc., and keep detailed test records and reports for subsequent provision to customers or for certification applications.

4. Apply for certification and license

According to the requirements of the European market, apply for relevant certifications and licenses, such as CE certification, etc.

5. Arrange transportation and insurance

• Vessel type selection: It is crucial to choose an appropriate transport vessel type. For small wind power components exported in batches, container ships can provide standardized and convenient transportation solutions; while large complete machines or ultra-large blades require professional heavy-lift vessels and semi-submersible vessels, which have strong lifting and carrying capabilities.
• Transportation routes: Rationally plan transportation routes, comprehensively consider factors such as the Suez Canal traffic restrictions, the sea ice conditions in Northern Europe in winter, and the loading and unloading capacity of European ports, and cooperate with highly reputable professional logistics providers to escort equipment out to sea.
• Transportation Insurance: Purchase sufficient transportation insurance to reduce risks during transportation.

6. Customs declaration and clearance preparation

Exporters or their agents need to prepare a series of customs clearance documents, such as bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, foreign trade contracts, certificates of origin, transport insurance policies, CE certification, etc., and fill out customs declaration forms in accordance with EU requirements to ensure that the cargo information is accurate.

7. Customs audit and inspection

EU customs will review the submitted import declaration, check the completeness and accuracy of the documents, and whether the goods comply with EU import regulations. If customs deems it necessary, they may inspect the goods, request additional documents or information, or conduct sampling tests on the goods.

8. Pay taxes

After the goods pass customs inspection, the corresponding tariffs, value-added tax and other taxes must be paid according to the EU's tariff policy.

9. Cargo release and delivery

After paying taxes and duties, the goods will be released and the exporter can arrange to pick up the goods and deliver them to the customer's designated location to complete the delivery.

II. Certification requirements

1. THISCertification

The mandatory certification mark for entering the European market indicates that the product meets the basic safety requirements of the relevant EU directives. Wind energy equipment needs to meet the requirements of the Machinery MD Directive 2006/42/EC, the Electromagnetic Compatibility EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, the Low Voltage LVD Directive 2014/35/EU and other directives, and pass the corresponding tests and evaluations before obtaining the CE certification.

2. RoHSCertification

The use of certain hazardous substances in electronic and electrical equipment is restricted, and electronic components in wind power equipment, etc. need to comply with the environmental protection standards of this certification.

3. VDECertification

Although it is not a mandatory certification, in the German market, passing the VDE certification can prove that the product meets the German safety electrical standards and help improve the market competitiveness of the product.

III. Packaging labeling requirements

1. Basic information identification

The product name should be accurate and clear, and the product model and number should be marked, and the detailed information of the manufacturer and supplier should be clear, including name, address, contact information, etc., and the country of origin of the product should be clearly indicated.

2. Instructions for use and safety warning signs

Write clear and concise instructions in the local official language or a common international language. For products with complex operations, provide detailed step-by-step instructions. Identify the potential safety risks of the product and provide necessary safety protection measures based on the nature and risk level of the product.

3. Certification and compliance marks

Correctly mark the corresponding certification marks on the packaging, such as the CE mark, etc. Mark the international standards or standards of the importing country that the product complies with. For some products subject to special trade controls, the corresponding compliance mark must also be marked.

4. Packaging materials and environmental labels

Indicate the type of packaging material. For some special packaging materials, such as biodegradable materials or recyclable materials, their characteristics must be clearly marked. According to European environmental protection requirements, mark the corresponding environmental protection logo.

Looking ahead, as the global energy transition accelerates, the demand for wind power in Europe will continue to rise, and Chinese wind power equipment is expected to further expand its presence in Europe and even the world with its comprehensive advantages in cost-effectiveness, technology, etc. Of course, there are still challenges ahead, trade protectionism may change its tactics, and technological competition will become increasingly fierce, but this also requires Chinese wind power companies to stick to innovation and go overseas in compliance with regulations.