Development from the Windicator

With the recession deepening, the overriding question is what is likely to happen to world wind in 2009. The messages are mixed, both among manufacturers (previous page) and project developers. Some large energy companies active in project development are pulling out, or scaling back, others are willing buyers; a number of independent developers, large and small, are in trouble, as documented in Windpower Monthly. But even if capacity additions this year are only the same as last, global wind would hit about 150 GW, perhaps a "central estimate" of what is likely to happen, based on current knowledge. Some retrenchment is likely but industry confidence is growing as economic stimulus packages are announced around the world in response to the recession, often singling wind out for specific support.