Wind power made up 35% of the new US power generation capacity added in 2007, according to the AWEA. I was surprised by that high percentage.
The report also reveals how much influence the Federal government has on wind power construction when you look at how much capacity was added with and without the production tax credit (PTC). It would be nice if the government stop making huge waves in the industry and would allow the market place to determine the most economical type of power plants to build (taking into account the cost of fuel, construction, environmental, etc.).
“… if Congress does not act quickly, this momentum could be derailed at the worst possible time for the economy, placing 76,000 jobs and over $11.5 billion in investment at risk,“ Swisher added. “While 2008 is shaping up to be another great year, we could see a very different story in 2009 as uncertainty looms over investment in wind power projects and manufacturing due to continuing delay in extending the production tax credit (PTC),” Swisher added. The PTC is the primary federal incentive for wind power, and expires at the end of the year along with incentives for other renewable electricity sources.
I wonder if the 35 % is so high because almost no new large conventional capacity is being built?
good point, possibly so