Could use a little wind out here

While the chances of comprehensive climate change and energy legislation seem less and less likely, it's nice to see some good news coming out of the states. This is an interesting piece on the largest US wind farm to date. Home grown energy that reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, provides a clean, safe, and secure source of energy, and creates thousands of jobs. Dare I say it's a win-wind?

Wind and the West

I just came across this article from the NY Times on a recent study published by the Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL). Essentially it debunks the notion that renewables can not significantly displace conventional power sources.

It's also interesting to note that a record breaking amount of wind energy capacity was installed last year in the US. And while a recent industry study projects a positive mid-term outlook, "2010 marks the first time since 2004 that the U.S. wind industry will not surpass the previous year's growth level."

It makes you wonder what's needed to increase and sustain long-term growth? Hmmm, right, regulatory certainty and significant financial flows.