[Latest] Carbon Fiber in Wind Turbine Rotor Blade Market to Reach US$18.07 Billion by 2033 | Astute Analytica – GlobeNewswire

Report on the Global Carbon Fiber in Wind Turbine Rotor Blade Market and its Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

Executive Summary: Market Growth and Contribution to SDG 7 and SDG 13

The global market for carbon fiber in wind turbine rotor blades is projected to experience substantial growth, increasing from a valuation of US$ 4.989 billion in 2024 to US$ 18.07 billion by 2033. This expansion, occurring at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15.37%, is intrinsically linked to global efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). The increasing adoption of wind energy, facilitated by advanced materials like carbon fiber, is a critical component of the transition away from fossil fuels and towards a sustainable energy infrastructure.

Market Dynamics and Sustainable Development Imperatives

Key Market Drivers Supporting SDG 7

The market’s growth is propelled by several factors that directly support the expansion of renewable energy capacity, a core target of SDG 7.

• Demand for Longer Blades: The pursuit of longer rotor blades to maximize wind energy capture and improve turbine efficiency is a primary driver.
• Manufacturing Advancements: Innovations in automated manufacturing are reducing production cycle times for composites, making wind energy more scalable and affordable. This aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
• Supportive Government Policies: Global government policies promoting renewable energy projects are accelerating the deployment of wind turbines, directly contributing to national and international climate targets under SDG 13.

Emerging Trends and Their Impact on SDGs

Current trends within the market reflect a growing emphasis on sustainability and efficiency, aligning with multiple SDGs.

• Thermoplastic Resins for Recyclability: The emergence of thermoplastic resins aims to improve the recyclability and repairability of blades, addressing a key challenge and supporting SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
• Large-Tow Carbon Fiber: Increased use of large-tow carbon fiber is helping to reduce material costs, making clean energy more economically viable.
• Digital Twin Technology: The adoption of digital twin technology for predictive maintenance enhances operational efficiency and the longevity of wind energy assets, reinforcing SDG 9.

Challenges to Sustainable Growth

Several challenges must be addressed to ensure the market’s long-term contribution to sustainable development.

• Supply Chain Volatility: Persistent volatility in the supply of polyacrylonitrile (PAN), a key precursor material, poses a risk to stable production and pricing.
• Recycling Difficulties: Technical challenges in recycling thermoset composites used in blades hinder progress towards a fully circular economy, a key aspect of SDG 12.
• Logistical Complexities: The transportation of next-generation oversized turbine blades presents growing logistical hurdles, impacting the efficiency and cost of new installations.

Advancements in Sustainable Manufacturing and Innovation (SDG 9 & SDG 12)

Innovations in Production Processes

The industry is actively pursuing technological advancements to make carbon fiber production more sustainable. Global production surpassed 140,000 metric tons in 2024, driven by demand. However, the energy intensity of processes like polyacrylonitrile carbonization, which cost over US$ 2,000 per metric ton in 2024, is a significant concern. In response, initiatives are underway to improve efficiency.

1. Energy Reduction Projects: The CARBOWAVE project aims to reduce energy consumption in carbon fiber production by over 70%, directly contributing to SDG 7 and SDG 12 by minimizing the environmental footprint of manufacturing.
2. AI-Driven Quality Control: Advanced AI systems introduced in 2025 can detect material flaws with 100% accuracy and zero false positives. This innovation enhances product reliability and reduces waste, aligning with the principles of SDG 9.

Global Precursor Material Market

The market is heavily dependent on the availability and pricing of PAN. Global production is expected to exceed 1.2 million metric tons in 2024. However, pricing varies significantly by region, impacting procurement strategies.

• USA: US$ 2423 per metric ton (Q2 2025 projection)
• Japan: US$ 1925 per metric ton (Q2 2025 projection)
• Germany: US$ 1887 per metric ton (Q2 2025 projection)
• China: US$ 1778 per metric ton (Q2 2025 projection)
• India: US$ 1688 per metric ton (Q2 2025 projection)

Rotor Design, Efficiency, and the Circular Economy

Leveraging Carbon Fiber for Enhanced Energy Capture (SDG 7)

The use of carbon fiber enables the design of longer, lighter, and more efficient rotor blades. Blades now often exceed 80 meters in length. The material’s high strength-to-weight ratio is critical; integrating carbon fiber can reduce the weight of a 100-meter blade by approximately 15 tons compared to a glass fiber equivalent. This weight reduction allows for larger turbines with higher energy output, such as the 4.5 MW average capacity seen in 2024, directly advancing the goal of affordable and clean energy.

Contributions to a Circular Economy (SDG 12)

As older turbines are decommissioned, the industry is exploring innovative repurposing solutions to extend the life of materials and promote a circular economy. A 40-meter blade, for example, can be repurposed into functional infrastructure, demonstrating a commitment to responsible resource management.

• A 25-meter span bridge
• A 30-meter telecommunications mast

Global Expansion and Regional Contributions to Clean Energy

Offshore Wind Growth and SDG 14

The offshore wind sector is expanding rapidly, contributing significantly to global renewable energy capacity. In 2024, 11.7 GW of new offshore capacity was added, bringing the global total to 78.5 GW. This growth supports SDG 7 and also intersects with SDG 14 (Life Below Water), necessitating sustainable development practices to protect marine ecosystems. China led this expansion, accounting for 6.1 GW of new offshore capacity. The United States is also advancing, with 4,097 MW under construction as of May 2024.

Asia Pacific’s Dominance in Wind Energy Manufacturing

The Asia Pacific region, led by China, is the dominant force in the market, holding a 61.60% share in 2024. China’s installed wind energy capacity reached 410 GW by June 2024, supported by a nacelle assembly capacity of 82 GW annually. This industrial capacity is fundamental to scaling up global renewable energy infrastructure in line with SDG 7.

Economic Viability and Creation of Decent Work (SDG 8)

Improving Cost-Effectiveness for Affordable Energy

The economic viability of wind energy continues to improve. The global benchmark for onshore wind generation is expected to fall to US$ 38 per megawatt-hour, with clean power technology costs projected to decrease by another 2-11% in 2025. This trend makes wind power increasingly competitive, supporting the “affordable” aspect of SDG 7.

Fostering Skilled Employment

The growth of the wind energy sector creates skilled jobs, contributing to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). In 2025, blade technician salaries reflect the demand for specialized labor:

• United Kingdom: Hourly wages range from £27 for a Level 1 technician to £39 for a Level 3 technician.
• United States: Annual salaries range from US$ 40,000 for entry-level positions to over US$ 80,000 for experienced technicians.

Sustainable Lifecycle Management and Responsible Production (SDG 12)

Addressing End-of-Life Challenges

A critical challenge for the industry is the management of decommissioned turbine blades. This issue is central to achieving SDG 12. By 2025, Europe is expected to decommission 25,000 tons of blades annually, a figure projected to rise to 52,000 tons by 2030. Globally, over 40,000 turbines are expected to reach their end-of-life by 2030. In response, the wind blade recycling market is emerging, with facilities like a plant in Spain now capable of processing 10,000 tons of blades per year, turning waste into a resource and promoting a circular economy.

Strategic Investments and Government Support

Government funding and corporate investment are accelerating innovation in sustainability. The U.S. Department of Energy has allocated up to US$ 20 million for Wind Turbine Technology Recycling. Leading companies like Toray Group are also expanding production capacity, investing approximately US$ 780 million by 2025 to meet rising demand for composite materials, which is essential for sustaining the growth of the renewable energy sector.

Market Segmentation Overview

By Type

• Regular-Tow Carbon Fiber (76.20% market share)
• Large-Tow Carbon Fiber

By Blade Size

• 27-37 meter
• 38-50 meter
• 51-75 meter (38.40% market share)
• 76-100 meter
• 100-200 meter

By Application

• Spar Cap (61.20% market share)
• Leaf Root
• Skin Surface
• Others

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific (61.60% market share)
• Middle East & Africa (MEA)
• South America

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • The entire article is centered on the wind turbine industry, a key component of clean and renewable energy. It discusses the growth of the market, expansion of wind farms (both onshore and offshore), and advancements in technology to make wind energy more efficient and widespread. For example, it states, “In 2024 alone, for example, 109.9 GW of global wind additions were land-based. Simultaneously, offshore wind capacity rose by a substantial 11.7 GW worldwide.”
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • The article highlights the economic growth of the carbon fiber and wind energy sectors, with the market expected to grow from “US$ 4.989 billion in 2024” to “US$ 18.07 billion by 2033.” It also explicitly mentions job creation, such as a South African project creating “20,000 jobs” and the potential for Direct Air Capture technology to create “400,000 jobs by 2050.” Furthermore, it details wages for skilled labor, noting that in the US, “experienced US technicians can earn between US$ 60,000 and 80,000 per year,” indicating the creation of decent work.
3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
   • The text is replete with examples of industrial innovation and infrastructure development. It details advancements in manufacturing (“AI-driven defect detection systems,” “automated manufacturing”), materials (“thermoplastic resins to improve blade recyclability”), and energy efficiency in production (the “CARBOWAVE project… aims to slash energy use in production by over 70 percent”). The construction of new wind farms and manufacturing facilities, such as Toray Group’s expansion in South Carolina, represents significant infrastructure development.
4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • The article directly addresses the challenge of waste management in the wind industry. It points out the “technical difficulties in recycling the thermoset composites used in blades” and quantifies the problem: “by 2025, approximately 25,000 tons of blades will reach their operational end annually in Europe.” It also discusses solutions, such as the emergence of recycling plants (“A recycling plant in Spain, for instance, now has the capacity to process 10,000 tons of blades per year”) and creative repurposing of old blades into bridges and masts, promoting a more circular economy.
5. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • The growth of the wind energy market, as detailed in the article, is a direct measure to combat climate change by increasing the share of renewable energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Government support for these projects, such as the “US$ 136 million available for 66 projects” for industrial decarbonization, demonstrates the integration of climate change measures into national policies and strategies.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. Under SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy)
   • Target 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. The article’s data on the rapid expansion of wind energy capacity, such as “global wind turbine installations reached a record 121.6 GW in 2024,” directly relates to this target.
   • Target 7.a: By 2030, enhance international cooperation to facilitate access to clean energy research and technology… and promote investment in energy infrastructure and clean energy technology. The article mentions significant investments, such as Toray’s “US$ 780 million by 2025 to boost composite production” and government funding like the “US$ 20 million for Wind Turbine Technology Recycling” from the U.S. DOE, which supports this target.
2. Under SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)
   • Target 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading and innovation. The focus on “Advanced Manufacturing Technologies,” AI-driven quality control, and innovative rotor designs that improve efficiency all contribute to achieving higher productivity in the renewable energy sector.
3. Under SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure)
   • Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies. The article describes efforts to make production more sustainable, such as projects aiming to “slash energy use in production by over 70 percent” and the development of recyclable thermoplastic resins for blades.
   • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries… The article is a testament to this target, detailing numerous innovations like “digital twin technology,” “AI systems” for defect prediction, and new materials like “large-tow carbon fiber for material cost reduction.”
4. Under SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)
   • Target 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse. The article’s discussion on the challenge of blade waste (“over 40,000 wind turbines are expected to reach their end-of-life by 2030”) and the solutions being developed, including recycling plants and repurposing blades into infrastructure like bridges, directly aligns with this target.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. For SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy)
   • Renewable energy capacity: The article provides specific figures, such as “global offshore wind capacity reached a total of 78.5 GW” in 2024, and “China has successfully installed an impressive 410 GW of wind energy.” These are direct indicators of the share of renewable energy.
   • Cost of renewable energy: The mention that the “global benchmark for onshore wind generation… is set to fall to a competitive US$ 38 per megawatt-hour” serves as an indicator for the affordability of clean energy.
2. For SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)
   • Market value and growth rate: The market valuation (“US$ 4.989 billion in 2024”) and projected growth (“CAGR of 15.37%”) are indicators of economic growth.
   • Jobs created: Specific numbers like “20,000 jobs” from a single project are direct indicators of employment generation.
3. For SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure)
   • Investment in R&D and infrastructure: Figures like the “US$ 20 million for Wind Turbine Technology Recycling” and Toray’s “US$ 780 million” investment by 2025 are indicators of financial commitment to innovation.
   • Energy efficiency improvements: The goal of the CARBOWAVE project to “slash energy use in production by over 70 percent” is a quantifiable indicator of progress towards sustainable industrial processes.
   • Production capacity: The increase in manufacturing capacity, such as a Chinese project with an “annual capacity of 24,000 tons of precursor,” indicates industrial growth.
4. For SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)
   • Volume of waste generated: The projection that “25,000 tons of blades will reach their operational end annually in Europe” by 2025 is an indicator of the scale of the waste problem.
   • Recycling capacity: The capacity of new facilities, such as the “recycling plant in Spain… [that] can process 10,000 tons of blades per year,” is a direct indicator of progress in managing waste.

4. Summary Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: globenewswire.com