It is reported that Spain based wind turbine manufacturer Gamesa has inaugurated its 400 MW nacelle factory in Camaçari in the state of Bahia.

With productive capacity of 400 MW, Gamesa's new plant assembles nacelles for 2.0 MW wind turbines (G9X and G8X). Gamesa's industrial activity in this Brazilian town will create 100 direct jobs and will contribute to the development of the Brazilian wind power industry. Ultimately, local suppliers will account for as much as 60% of the components used by the company to produce its wind turbines in the Brazil.

Mr Jorge Calvet chairman & CEO of Gamesa said that "Start up of production in Bahia is the lynchpin of our commitment to participating in the development of wind energy in Brazil, energy that is sustainable and competitive, guarantees the supply of safe power and is proving a key engine in economic and social development across the globe."

He added that "In Bahia, we have found a mutual commitment and the ideal location for forging ahead with a project articulated around three major strategic cornerstones: the combination of our global leadership with local know how; consolidation as a benchmark and competitive manufacturer in terms of cost, flexibility and reliability; and a commitment to community development in our operating markets in terms of the creation of stable jobs for qualified professionals and the generation of wealth through purchasing and alliances with local suppliers."

Gamesa's presence in Brazil dates back to 1998, when it performed engineering services for the maintenance of power lines and substations. Over the past decade, this presence has grown to include three major wind farm projects within the PROINFA framework for fostering alternative power services.

Across Latin America, the company has installed 200 MW of turbines and has agreements and orders in place for a further 800 MW in Honduras, Brazil, Mexico and Costa Rica. The opening of the facilities serves as the launch pad of Gamesa's long term growth in the Mercosur market.