The American Wind Energy Assn. (AWEA) reported on May 10, in its first quarter market report, that the U.S. wind energy industry is on track to install over 3,000 megawatts (MW) of wind power generating capacity nationwide in 2007.

The reports adds that Texas could account for about two-thirds of the new installations. More than 100 MW have newly come online in the U.S. so far this year, and more than 1,000 more are under construction in Texas alone, according to AWEA. One megawatt of wind power produces enough electricity on average to serve 250 to 300 homes.

“Clean, cost-effective, inexhaustible, and readily available, wind power is an essential element of the solution to both climate change and Americaís increasing demand for electricity,� said AWEA executive director Randall Swisher in a statement. “Texas recognized this business opportunity and successfully spurred wind power development with a Renewables Portfolio Standard [RPS] and other forward-looking policies.î

“The moment has come for the U.S. government to build on the example set by Texas and many other states, and enact a national RPS as part of any energy legislation it considers this year,� added Swisher.