Wind Energy Market Trends
Factors Affecting the Growth of Wind Technologies
The U.S. wind power industry is facing uncertain times. With 2011 capacity additions having risen from 2010 levels and with a further sizable increase expected in 2012, there are — on the surface — grounds for optimism. Key factors driving growth in 2011 included continued State and Federal incentives for wind energy, recent improvements in the cost and performance of wind power technology, and the need to meet an end-of-year construction start deadline in order to qualify for the Section 1603 Treasury grant program. At the same time, the currently slated expiration of key Federal tax incentives for wind energy at…
