AWEA announces successful 2016 first quarter for wind power

The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) announced on Thursday that the first quarter of 2016 was one of the most successful for wind power installations since 2012, with 520 megawatts (MW) of new electric capacity added and more to come.

According to the AWEA’s U.S. Wind Industry First Quarter 2016 Market Report, demand for wind power is at its highest since 2012. In addition to the newly operational wind power facilities, construction on new facilities is expected to add an additional 10,100 MW to the grid.

“Our productive first quarter reflects the strength of American wind power entering 2016,” AWEA CEO Tom Kiernan said. “As the wind business builds momentum, we’re prepared to double wind’s contribution to America’s electricity supply in the next five years.”

The U.S. energy portfolio now features more than 48,800 operational wind turbines across 40 states and territories, including Puerto Rico and Guam. The wind power capacity in the country is strong enough to power 20 million homes, and more development is underway.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Wind Vision report, the wind power sector is expected to double by 2020 – with enough power to supply 10 percent of all U.S. electricity. The report also projected that the demand for wind power could double again by 2030, to supply up to 20 percent of all U.S. electricity.