Wind Energy Grows 28% in a Year

Wind energy grew 28 percent in America last year, according to the American Wind Energy Association's (AWEA) U.S. Wind Industry Market Report for 2012.

Overall, wind energy topped all energy sources with a 42 percent of new electric generating capacity. There were more than 6,700 new wind turbines built that produced enough electricity to power the equivalent of 3.5 million homes.

AWEA says the impact of wind power development benefited all 50 states. "[2012] really showed what this industry can do and the impact we can have with a continued commitment to renewable energy," said Rob Gramlich, Interim CEO of AWEA. "We're doing what Americans overwhelmingly say they want: making more clean, renewable energy, and creating good jobs in U.S. factories."

AWEA's report found that more than 550 factories across the country provide parts and services for the wind energy industry. In addition to the industry's record growth last year, a growing trend augured well for its future: new purchases of wind power by 74 electric utilities.

Source: DomesticFuel.com

By Gaylen Davenport