An interview with Elena Zagorskaya, Industry Development Manager, Energy Industry Development Division

The development of wind energy involves not only advanced technologies and equipment, but also highly complex logistics, where the cost of error is extremely high. The transportation of wind turbine components is classified as project logistics and requires precise planning, in-depth industry expertise, and strict control at every stage of the logistics chain.

In this interview, Elena Zagorskaya, Industry Development Manager, explains how AsstrA approaches and delivers wind energy logistics projects.

- Elena, how is the Wind Logistics direction positioned within AsstrA’s structure?

We use the term Wind Logistics conditionally. Within AsstrA, it is part of the Energy Industry Development Division, which covers the entire energy sector. The team works on wind and solar energy projects, as well as with clients from the Oil & Gas and Fertilizers segments.

We are not talking about a separate product, but about comprehensive industry expertise that allows us to safely and effectively implement projects of any complexity.

- Why is it important for the company to develop this particular area?

For AsstrA, the development and support of the energy sector, including renewable energy, is not just another specialization — it is a strategically important focus that ensures the company’s long-term sustainability and opens opportunities to participate in major international projects.

Energy remains a fundamental sector of the global economy, and the demand for energy resources persists regardless of market fluctuations and cycles.

- What responsibilities does AsstrA take on within Wind Logistics?

AsstrA provides a full logistics cycle, from pre-project expertise to the delivery of equipment to the site. The company manages the entire supply chain as a single coordination hub: planning routes, obtaining permits, organizing storage and packaging, arranging insurance, handling customs clearance, and overseeing unloading.

The main focus is on responsibility for results and managing complex processes so that clients do not need to monitor every stage themselves.

- What distinguishes Wind Logistics transportation from other types of project logistics?

First and foremost, it is the high cost of cargo and the level of responsibility. Blades and turbines cost millions, and damage to them can result not only in financial losses, but also in project delays.

For example, a damaged blade tens of meters long often cannot be repaired on site, and the supplier has to return it to the manufacturer. This significantly complicates logistics and increases overall costs.

- What are the key challenges involved in transporting wind turbine components?

The organization of transportation for wind turbine components and high-value equipment is associated with a range of technical and environmental challenges. These include the absence or poor quality of road infrastructure, aging power transmission lines, as well as unpredictable weather conditions that can block planned routes.

Additional complexity arises from the equipment’s sensitivity to vibrations and mechanical stress, which requires the use of specialized transport and carefully engineered cargo securing and protection solutions.

- What solutions does AsstrA apply to ensure the safety and efficiency of transportation?

Project logistics requires precision and experience. AsstrA’s Industrial Project Logistics team is responsible for the entire process — from developing the transportation concept and obtaining permits to coordinating local contractors and managing on-site forwarding.

We apply proactive control and carefully plan each stage to minimize unforeseen situations and safeguard our clients’ interests.

- How does AsstrA interact with clients and contractors throughout all stages of a project?

Projects are delivered through an end-to-end management approach — from route planning to final delivery at the site. We ensure transparent communication, timely adaptation to changes, and control over key milestones, which allows us to minimize operational risks and keep projects within agreed timelines and budgets.

- In which regions are Wind Logistics projects with AsstrA’s involvement currently being implemented?

We operate in regions where the market is developing most actively. Today, this includes the countries of the South Caucasus and Central Asia — regions with growing demand for wind and solar energy, significant investment, and the involvement of leading global equipment manufacturers, including China.

- Which countries and regions does AsstrA see as having the greatest potential for expanding Wind Logistics projects?

We see the greatest potential in the countries of Central Asia. China remains a global leader in wind energy, both in terms of new capacity installations and the industry’s long-term development targets. In Europe, Spain deserves particular attention, with significant offshore wind capacity planned for commissioning by 2030.

- What competencies are essential for a specialist working in Wind Logistics?

Key competencies include technical knowledge of the equipment and its transportation and securing requirements, experience in managing heavy and oversized cargo, route planning, and end-to-end project coordination. Regulatory and legal expertise is also critical — including permits, customs clearance, insurance, and budget control at all stages — ensuring reliable logistics solutions even for the most complex projects.

- What is the key factor in the successful delivery of complex projects?

The decisive factor is a strong, well-coordinated team built on trust and shared responsibility. Complex challenges can only be addressed through clearly defined roles and seamless collaboration. At AsstrA, each expert contributes their specific competence, enabling the successful delivery of high-complexity projects and consistent value for our clients.