German wind equipment manufacturer, Fuhrländer, claims to be on the point of signing contracts valued at R$900m for the sale of turbines with capacity of 400 MW in Brazil. The identity of the customer(s), which will rank as the first for the company in the Brazilian market, has not been disclosed - but they are understood to be amongst the winners of contracts in last December's auction.

Fuhrländer is building a manufacturing plant, with capacity to produce 20 turbines every month, in Pecem (in the state of Ceará) at a cost of R$20m. The company is aiming to differentiate itself in the competitive Brazilian market through its technology - specifically with the use of high towers of 140 metres, which can take advantage of stronger winds.

Fuhrländer is currently focusing on business in the North East of Brazil, but is understood to be considering constructing a second plant in the south of the country - although no decisions have been made on that.