Jotun has published a new report, Global Wind Expansion, examining the impact of supply chain constraints, maintenance and workforce shortages on the profitability of wind projects. The research, conducted among 650 wind energy component manufacturers and wind farm operators across 13 countries, found that the sector is facing tighter profit margins and rising operational expenditure (OpEx). Respondents also reported project delays and, in some cases, cancellations in key markets.
Key findings include:
- 77% said supply chain disruptions had reduced project profitability during the past 18 months.
- 64% said supply chain constraints threaten their ability to meet energy security goals.
- 80% said a shortage of skilled labour is affecting their projects.
- 67% are prioritising fewer maintenance shutdowns to maximise energy output.
- 55% of onshore respondents, compared with 39% of offshore respondents, said unplanned coating degradation had affected their budgets.
Supply chain disruption was identified as a major challenge, with 77% of respondents reporting an impact on project profitability over the past 18 months. The figure was 90% among respondents in the UK.
Responses also varied between markets. Supplier consolidation was the most common response in Germany and Denmark, reported by 38% and 32% of respondents respectively. In Taiwan and Spain, simplifying coating application to reduce labour requirements was the most common response, at 36% and 32%.
The research also examined the skills shortage in the wind industry and the potential to recruit workers with experience from the offshore oil and gas sector. While 80% of respondents said skilled labour shortages are affecting their projects, 52% of offshore operators said the wind industry should recruit actively from the sector.
The findings indicate a growing focus on reducing maintenance requirements. Some 67% of respondents said reducing the frequency of maintenance shutdowns is their primary strategy for maximising energy output.
Unplanned expenditure related to coatings was reported more frequently by onshore respondents. Some 55% said unplanned coating degradation in harsh environments had affected their initial budgets, compared with 39% of offshore respondents.
The report is based on research conducted by Censuswide among 650 wind energy professionals across 13 countries between 12 May and 2 July 2026. It also includes qualitative interviews with five professionals from wind energy operators, industry organisations and Jotun's internal expert network.
