Only a few weeks ago, MHI Vestas unveiled the first 10MW offshore turbine, while its closest rivals, Siemens Gamesa, GE and Senvion, are working on developing their own double-digit-megawatt machines.

What is less well known is that as many as eight Chinese turbine makers are doing exactly the same thing.

And with the Asian offshore wind market set to take off in the coming years, cheaper Chinese turbines — with lower shipping costs — may soon offer stiff competition to the established international players.