Report: Renewable Energy is Leading Source of New Electric Generating Capacity in US

Renewable energy is starting off right in the new year with the “Electric Power Annual 2007” report from the US Energy Information Administration. According to the newly released report, non-hydroelectric renewable energy is now the leading source of new electric generating capacity in the US.

In 2007, electric power generation increased 2.3%, from 4,065 million MWh in 2006 to 4,157 MWh in 2007. Total net summer capacity increased 8,673 MW, with wind energy responsible for 5,186 MW.

Wood and wood derived fuels continue to be the largest source of renewable generation, accounting for 37.1%. Coming in second place is wind energy, accounting for 32.7& of total net generation from non-hydroelectric renewable sources.

The only renewable energy source to decline was conventional hydroelectric power, dropping from 289 million MWh in 2006 to 248 million MWh in 2007.

I’m betting that these figures will only become more encouraging with a renewable energy-friendly president in office.

Photo Credit: NREL