According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), wind power capacity in the United States jumped by 66% in 2001. Record growth of 1,694 MW increased the total U.S. wind power capacity from 2,564 to 4,258 MW. The AWEA says that the new installations last year represent capital investments of about $1.7 billion and will produce enough electricity to meet the needs of 475,000 households annually.

U.S. growth is outpacing world growth. The Earth Policy Institute reported that world wind power capacity increased 31% in 2001.

Publication date: 04/08/2002