Former President Donald Trump, birds, and quality assurance engineers may seem like an odd trio, but they all share a dislike for wind turbines. According to a recent report by the Financial Times, quality issues in the wind industry are leading to hefty losses for manufacturers, adding to the long streak of bad press for the industry and doubt about its viability.

• Last month, a 20-ton wind turbine blade broke off from its tower at a Norwegian wind farm, highlighting a series of major incidents involving large wind projects.
• As wind turbines grow in size, manufacturers are spending more on replacements — with warranties making up ~5.4% of producers’ revenues in 2023, as reported by Wood Mackenzie.

Control the narrative: Despite renewable sources reaching a record 30% of global electricity production, as revealed in Ember’s latest Global Electricity Review, wind power remains financially precarious, even with subsidies. This issue has become a contentious topic in the culture war, particularly for Republicans. Addressing the industry’s challenges is paramount this election year — especially with politicians eyeing their subsidies.