In its annual state-of-the-industry report, Outlook 2008, AWEA announced that last year's 45% growth rate is a record breaking milestone for the U.S. wind power industry.
New wind power installations comprised 30% of all new electricity generating capacity added in 2007. More than 5,200 MW of wind were added to the U.S. supply last year, which is enough to generate zero-emissions, renewable electricity for 1.5 million American homes. The report notes that new wind plants accounted for the largest portion of new generation of any type built in the U.S. over the year.
The AWEA report cautions that without quick extension of the federal renewable energy production tax credit (PTC), wind power will be unable to sustain such dynamic growth. With 116,000 jobs and $19 billion in clean energy investment at risk, renewable energy tax credits are a critical element of a long-term federal policy to foster clean, renewable energy sources in the U.S.
Outlook 2008 also highlights new manufacturing facilities built or announced during 2007, quantifies jobs growth during the year and addresses policy priorities including the PTC, the need for changes in transmission policy, and global climate change.
The full report is posted on AWEA's web site, www.awea.org/pubs/documents/Outlook_2008.pdf
