Founded in 1980 by Ayrshire born Gordon Proven, SD Wind Energy (previously Proven Energy) is one of Scotland’s original wind turbine manufacturers. It has built a global reputation for producing robust turbines capable of withstanding some of the world’s most extreme environments – including Offshore production platforms, the windswept Outer Hebrides and the Princess Elizabeth Research Station in Antarctica.
To date, SD Wind Energy has installed more than 8,500 wind turbines across over 70 countries, including in Japan, Alaska and Falkland Islands.
SD Wind Energy has seen increasing international demand, leading to it needing to increase its production capacity at its Stewarton manufacturing plant in East Ayrshire. The funding from Allica Bank is enabling the business to invest in automation machinery and upgrading its manufacturing systems to boost output and future-proof its Scottish facility.
The investment will also support job creation and skills development at its East Ayrshire plant. SD Wind Energy plans to create new roles for the local workforce requiring modern engineering, digital, and data-led skills, ensuring the next generation sees a long-term future in renewables.
“We’ve always had the technical knowledge and ambition to grow, and we’re really excited that we can take the next step for SD Wind Energy as we expand internationally. We’re proud our turbines have been at the forefront of wind energy for more than 40 years - and we’re really excited to see where the next 40 take us, said Toshiro Urushitani, SD Wind’s CEO.
“What we needed to unlock this next step was investment to modernise the business and move it forward. Allica was the catalyst - without their support, we simply wouldn’t have been able to think strategically about the future.”
The funding is also helping SD Wind Energy expand its product range. The business is accelerating research and development into both larger turbines and very small-scale solutions, giving it the flexibility to meet evolving customer needs, from everyday households to large-scale industrial projects.
For example, SD Wind Energy’s small wind turbines and hybrid systems provide off-grid, low-carbon energy for remote villages, rural homes and islands without easy grid access. With 17% of the world’s population still without electricity, SD Wind Energy’s turnkey mini-grids and stand-alone solutions could help to replace fossil fuels in these regions, cut carbon emissions and deliver long-term energy security as part of the global fight against climate change.
Furthermore, alongside wind, the company is now diversifying into solar and hybrid energy, installing solar panels at its Scottish facility to create a live demonstration site where customers can see renewable systems in action and access real-time performance data.
“Businesses are under mounting pressure to reduce carbon emissions and demonstrate progress towards net zero,” added Toshiro. “By combining wind, solar and data monitoring, we can help organisations understand exactly where their energy is coming from, how it’s being used, and how their systems are performing.”
Following strong success in North America over the past year, SD Wind Energy is focused on further expansion in the US and Canada.
Craig Graham, Allica Bank’s Relationship Manager for Glasgow and the West of Scotland, said, “Visiting SD Wind and seeing their team in action really brings home how much expertise and care goes into every turbine.”
“This funding isn’t just about machines – it’s about helping a Scottish business protect and grow local jobs, bring new skills into the area and deliver clean energy solutions that make a real difference in the world. It’s exciting to be part of a journey that supports both the community here in East Ayrshire and the wider push toward net zero.”
