Installed U.S. Wind Power Capacity Surged by 45% in 2007

Jan. 29, 2008
The U.S. wind energy industry installed 5,244MW in 2007, expanding the nation’s total wind power generating capacity by 45% in a single calendar year and injecting an investment of more than $9 billion into the economy

The U.S. wind energy industry installed 5,244MW in 2007, expanding the nation’s total wind power generating capacity by 45% in a single calendar year and injecting an investment of more than $9 billion into the economy, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), Washington, D.C., reports. The new wind projects account for 30% of the entire new power-producing capacity added nationally in 2007 and will power the equivalent of 1.5 million American households annually.

According to the AWEA report, the U.S. wind power fleet now numbers 16,818MW and spans 34 states. American wind farms will generate an estimated 48 billion kilowatt hours of wind energy in 2008, just over 1% of U.S. electricity supply. The pace of growth in 2008 and beyond is expected to depend on timing and duration of an extension of the federal production tax credit.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Fiberglass Electrical Conduit Chemical Resistance Chart

This information is provided solely as a guide since it is impossible to anticipate all individual site conditions. For specific applications which are not covered in this guide...

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.