Highlights from the 2010 Wind Energy Buy-Chain Survey
In the midst of difficult economic conditions, the US wind power industry faced significant difficulties in 2010. Installations were hindered by factors such as ongoing challenges in securing project financing, low natural gas prices favouring gas-fired generation, and decreased electricity demand caused by the recession. In total, the USA added 5,115MW of wind capacity in 2010, about half the total of installations added in the previous year (American Wind Energy Association). Such a rapid drop in one year, especially following a stretch of 39% compound annual growth over the previous five years, would shake many industries to their core. What are US wind industry manufacturers and service companies looking for now?
By Tim Kumbier, Loch McCabe and Terri Schroeder, Shepherd Advisors, USA
In the midst of difficult economic conditions, the US wind power industry faced significant difficulties in 2010. Installations were hindered by factors such as ongoing challenges in securing project financing, low natural gas prices favouring gas-fired generation, and decreased electricity demand caused by the recession. In total, the USA added 5,115MW of wind capacity in 2010, about half the total of installations added in the previous year (American Wind Energy Association). Such a rapid drop in one year, especially following a stretch of 39% compound annual growth over the previous five years, would shake many industries to their core. What are US wind industry manufacturers and service companies looking for now?
By Tim Kumbier, Loch McCabe and Terri Schroeder, Shepherd Advisors, USA