Solar industry activity spikes in second quarter
Low wind energy costs and high construction activity have resulted in industry activity levels approaching an all-time high in the second quarter of 2016, according to the American Wind Energy Association’s (AWEA) recently released U.S. Wind Industry Second Quarter 2016 Market Report.
Congress passed a multi-year extension of the Production Tax Credit (PTC) last year that has provided incentives for utilities companies to invest rapidly in the wind industry while the full PTC value is in effect.
”There’s never been a better time to buy American wind energy,” Tom Kiernan, CEO of the AWEA, said. “Smart utilities and other customers are locking in prices at record lows by starting construction this year to qualify for the full-value PTC. The industry is thriving thanks to policy stability and we appreciate support from champions in Congress for a multi-year extension of the PTC.”
In order to meet growing demand, Enel Green Power North America, Inc. (EGP-NA), has begun construction on a 400 MW wind farm in Kansas, which will divide its output between the Kansas City Board of Public Utilities and Google.
“For EGP-NA, the first half of 2016 has been marked with rapid growth, including the announcement of more than 720 MW of new wind capacity under construction,” Jack Thirolf, senior director of regulatory affairs for Enel Green Power North America, said. “Not only are we seeing capacity growth, but also diversification of power purchasers as more commercial and industrial customers are attracted to the competitive pricing and long-term stability that clean wind energy can deliver.”
