Structural evolution and driving mechanisms of the global wind power equipment trade network

Driven by trade barriers, geopolitical tensions, and the global energy transition, the global trade network of wind power equipment is undergoing structural restructuring. Using complex network analysis, motif detection method, TERGM, and gravity model, this study characterizes the network's structural evolution from the perspective of technological complexity and examines its driving mechanisms. The results show that the United States, Germany, and China occupy the network's core as major exporters. The hierarchy of core technological component trade is becoming more rigid, while that of structural support components is flattening. Motif analysis reveals a diffusion-oriented pattern with intermediary nodes for core components and a centralized direct-supply pattern for structural components. Developed countries strengthen their dominance in high-tech segments but weaken in lower-value ones, whereas China shows comprehensive progress across the value chain. The evolution of the global wind power equipment trade relationships reflects the joint influence of endogenous structural features, exogenous network effects, and actor heterogeneity. Linguistic proximity, shared borders, reciprocity, structural closure, and the technological and economic development levels of countries all exert a positive influence on the evolution of the trade network. PPML gravity estimation further indicates that tariff barriers strongly inhibit bilateral trade in core components, while technical barriers mainly restrict structural components, with heterogeneous interaction effects among policy tools. The findings offer insights for promoting energy transition, reducing trade risks, and advancing high-quality development of the global new energy trade.