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Survey of Energy Resources Interim Update 2009

Wind Energy update

Like solar energy, the wind energy sector has seen very significant global growth in recent years. By end-2006, installed capacity was some 25% higher than at the end of the previous year; by end-2007 capacity had increased by a further 27% and it is estimated that 2008 saw an increase approaching 30%.

Prior to 2008 Germany led the world in terms of installed capacity, adding about 12% in 2006 and 8% in 2007. Although Spain was ahead of the USA at the end of 2006 and despite growing by some 30% in 2007, by end-2007 the USA had overtaken it, having grown some 45%. By end-2008, having increased its capacity by nearly 50%, the USA took over the world lead.
One country has demonstrated spectacular growth during the past three years: China has more than doubled its wind turbine capacity and now lies in fourth place.

Although other countries do not have as high a total installed capacity, nevertheless they have witnessed considerable growth, very often as a direct result of national renewable energy policies with defined targets.

Table 11.1: Wind energy: capacity and generation in 2007

Country Notes >