That’s good news for wind energy because 8,358 MW of new generating capacity . . .

• shatters all previous annual records

• swells the nation’s total wind power generating capacity by 50%

• represents economic investment of some $17 billion

• reflects 13,000 new jobs in the wind turbine and turbine component manufacturing sector

• positions wind power as one of the leading sources of new power generation in the U.S. (along with natural gas)

• and represents a savings of nearly 44 million tons of carbon emissions –the equivalent of taking 7 million cars off the road.

However, the AWEA press release suggests that continuation of this green steps trend in 2009 is far from guaranteed.  It comes as no surprise that the country’s continuing financial crisis is affecting the wind energy industry, as well.

“Our numbers are both exciting and sobering,” says AWEA CEO Denise Bode.  “The U.S. wind energy industry’s performance in 2008 confirms that wind is an economic and job creation dynamo, ready to deliver on the President’s call to double renewable energy production in three years.  At the same time, it is clear that the economic and financial downturn have begun to take a serious toll on new wind development.  We are already seeing layoffs in the area where wind’s promise is greatest for our economy: the wind power manufacturing sector.  Quick action in the stimulus bill is vital to restore the industry’s momentum and create jobs as we help make our country more secure and leave a more stable climate for our children.”