The latest data released by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) shows North, Central and South America has installed 11.9GW capacity of wind power in 2018, an increase of 12% on last year.
In North America (Canada and USA) new capacity additions grew by 10.8% compared to 2017. In Latin America new capacity additions grew by 18.7% compared to 2017.
In North America, the recent and final extension of the Production Tax Credit (PTC) has driven volume. In Latin America, the commitment to auctions has continued to deliver volume for the region. The Latin America region is expected to continue its growth with a further expansion of the supply chain during 2019.
In North America, the wind industry supports over 160,000 jobs (Source: CanWEA and AWEA).
Brazil installed 2GW of added capacity during 2018 and auctioned further capacity at world beating prices of as low as $22/MWh.
Mexico installed almost 1GW of new capacity, the highest capacity additions ever and now has a total capacity of 5GW. Mexico expects to reach its target of generating 35% of its power capacity through renewables before 2024.
The North American offshore wind market continues to develop with supply chain planning taking place, tenders for offshore leasing zones being conducted (Massachusetts), JV formations (EDF and Shell for New Jersey leasing zones) and industry players establishing offices (MHI Vestas). GWEC expects projects to commence construction between 2020 and 2025.
The North American offshore wind market continues to develop with supply chain planning taking place, tenders for offshore leasing zones being conducted (Massachusetts), JV formations (EDF and Shell for New Jersey leasing zones) and industry players establishing offices (MHI Vestas). GWEC expects projects to commence construction between 2020 and 2025.
North, Central and South America will make up about 25% of the total new global capacity in 2018.