Global wind power sees record year in 2006

The council which monitors wind energy in 70 countries worldwide has put out some impressive figures for the 2006 year. There was a 32% annual growth rate, compared to the record 2005 year which saw 41% in growth, this despite difficulties in the supply chain. The top five countries at the moment in terms of installed capacity are Germany (20,621 mW) , Spain (11,615 mW), the USA (11,603 mW), India (6,270 mW), and Denmark (3,136 mw).

France and Canada this year also joined 11 other countries in having more then 1000 MW of capacity. Other bright sports. While Europe continues to have 65% of global capacity other countries such as China and the United States are installing a great deal of capacity in an attempt to catch up, 2.454 MW and 1.347 MW respectively.

Arthouros Zervos, Chairman of GWEC was quoted as saying “As security of energy supply and climate change are ranging high on the political agendas of the world’s governments, wind energy has already become a mainstream energy source in many countries around the world. Wind energy is clean and fuel-free, which makes it the most attractive solution to the world’s energy challenges.”

Also promising to note was a 63% increase in the Middle Eastern and African markets, which are showing promising signs for the future. In total the value of newly installed equipment in 2006 was US $23 billion.

For additional information: www.gwec.net