LM Wind Power boosts Brazilian port

   LM Wind Power, a large manufacturer of blades for giant wind turbines, will build a new production facility in Brazil’s port of Suape, near Recife.
   The factory, employing up to 300 people, will be constructed with LM Wind Power’s joint venture partner Eólice and will deliver blades to wind farms in Brazil and throughout South America. It is expected that blade production will start in September 2013, and agreements with customers have already been finalized, the company said.
   Suape was developed for the manufacture of wind energy equipment and components, covering the entire supply chain of the wind industry.
   “A number of strategic customers have asked LM Wind Power to support their efforts in developing the market for wind energy in Brazil and throughout Latin America,” said Leo Schot, chief executive officer of LM Wind Power, in a statement. “We are also very happy to be working with a professional and engaged partner in Eólice, which will handle the infrastructure side of the venture.”
   Wind industry development in northeast Brazil is expected to generate 1,500 jobs with an overall investment of 100 million Brazilian reais. LM Wind Power will join companies such as the Argentine turbine manufacturer IMPSA, tower maker RM Wind, and Iraeta, a company that produces flanges which also has a factory under construction in the Suape port area.