Jotun report flags supply chain and labour strains on wind projects

Jotun launched its Global Wind Expansion report at WindEnergy Hamburg, based on a survey of 650 wind component manufacturers and wind-farm operators across 13 countries. The findings show 77% of respondents say supply chain disruptions damaged project profitability over the past 18 months, rising to 90% in the UK, while 80% cite a shortage of skilled labour. Among onshore respondents, 55% said unplanned coating degradation in harsh environments hit their budgets, versus 39% offshore.

Key facts

Market context

Protective coatings are a core cost and performance element in wind energy, shielding towers, nacelles, blades and foundations from corrosion, UV exposure and abrasion. Epoxy and polyurethane systems are the workhorses here, and their durability largely determines how often assets need recoating or repair. Demand is driven mainly by new onshore and offshore wind construction, plus the maintenance of the existing turbine fleet, where operators face costly downtime and access limits, particularly offshore. When coating systems degrade early or supply chains tighten, the effects typically show up as higher project costs, schedule slippage and pressure on margins for manufacturers and developers. Those conditions tend to favour coating suppliers that can offer longer service life and faster application, since fewer recoats and shorter curing windows reduce labour exposure and turbine downtime. Buyers of raw materials and coating formulations often respond by seeking more reliable supply and specifying higher-performance systems.

Source: official release on jotun.com. Summary and context written by Market Krystal.