“According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), the U.S. wind energy industry installed 5,244 megawatts (MW) in 2007, expanding the nation’s total wind power generating capacity by 45% in a single calendar year and injecting an investment of over $9 billion into the economy. The U.S. wind power fleet now numbers 16,818 MW and spans 34 states. American wind farms will generate an estimated 48 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of wind energy in 2008, just over 1% of U.S. electricity supply, powering the equivalent of over 4.5 million homes. Wind power’s strong performance is expected to continue.
Texas consolidated its lead in terms of installed wind power capacity. The states with the most cumulative wind power capacity installed are: Texas, with 4,356 MW; California, with 2,439 MW; Minnesota, with 1,299 MW; Iowa, with 1,273 MW; and Washington with 1,163 MW. At least fourteen new manufacturing facilities opened or were announced in 2007, according to initial AWEA estimates. Companies are creating new jobs and business opportunities across the country, even in states that do not have a large wind resource.
Given Texas’ position in the overall wind energy marketplace, HCP has had involvement with several wind developers including, but not limited to, contract needs with landowners, title reviews, land ownership research and identification and process implementation related to wind company needs.”