The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) has announced the results of a national survey of the public opinion of wind energy. Conducted in March, the results conclude that there is generally a clear support for wind energy as well as public support for new projects. 

Highlights of the survey include the fact that 89% of respondents believe increasing the amount of energy the nation gets from wind is a good idea, while 67% believe Congress is not doing enough to increase renewable energy sources such as wind.

AWEA CEO Denise Bode said, “Wind works for America and that is why voters want Congress to pass a strong national RES.  Americans understand that an RES will mean new manufacturing jobs, less dependence on imported energy, and more pure, clean, affordable energy for our country.” 

This comes shortly after a recent report showed 160% global growth in the wind industry for the next five years.

The United States is now even closer to the point where 2% of its electricity will come from wind turbines. That may seem like a small number, but considering that growth came during the recession, hopefully it is a sign of better things to come.

The American Wind Energy Association, in its annual report, said the amount of capacity added last year, 9,900 megawatts, was the largest on record, and was 18% above the capacity added in 2008, also a huge growth year.

The A.W.E.A. said the growth of wind power was helped by the federal stimulus package that passed a year ago, which extended a tax credit and provided other investment incentives for the industry.