[The Vector] Small Wind Turbines Make Advances with Ordinary Americans

The EIA chart below shows the percentage of all energy and renewable energy categories produced and consumed in the U.S. Note which are the leading categories of renewables and the relationship to wind.

The wind power industry in the U.S. had its best year in 2009, thanks to stimulus funding, other shorter-term incentives and growing American interest. In 2009, the U.S. wind industry added nearly 10,000 megawatts of new capacity, says the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). That capacity can power 2.4 million homes. Total U.S. installed capacity stands now at over 35,000 megawatts. In 2009, 38 manufacturing facilities were announced, expanded or brought online. But 2010 has been a slower year so far, due to expired policies and incentives, indecisive government action, the lagging economy and the continuing financing crisis.

However, AWEA reports in their June newsletter that small-scale wind has been increasing. That is, the number of Americans generating their own electricity with small turbines (rated 100 kilowatts or less) increased by 10,000 last year and is still continuing this year, despite the crippling economy. AWEA credited determined and optimistic investors and consumers who have been “relentless in seeking ways to cut electricity bills, become personally energy independent, and fight global warming in a tangible way.” (AWEA Windletter. “Small Wind Picks Up Even as Economy Turns Down.” Volume 26, Issue 6, June 2010.)