The U.S. Department of Energy has released a new report highlighting strong growth in the U.S. wind energy market in 2011. The U.S. share of clean energy has increased and supported tens of thousands of jobs while underscoring the importance of continued policy support and clean energy tax credits to ensure that the manufacturing and jobs associated with this booming global industry remain in the U.S.

According to the “2011 Wind Technologies Market Report,” the U.S. remained one of the world’s largest and fastest growing wind markets in 2011, with wind power representing 32% of all new electric capacity additions in the country last year and accounting for $14 billion in new investment. The percentage of wind equipment made in America also increased dramatically; nearly 70% of the equipment installed at U.S. wind farms last year—including wind turbines and components like towers, blades, gears, and generators—is now from domestic manufacturers, doubling from 35% in 2005.

“This report shows that America can lead the world in the global race to manufacture and deploy clean energy technologies,” said Steven Chu, Energy secretary. “The wind industry employs tens of thousands of American workers and has played a key role in helping to more than double wind power over the last four years. To ensure that this industry continues to stay competitive, President Obama has called on Congress to extend the successful clean energy tax credits, which are benefitting businesses and manufacturers nationwide.”

For additional information, visit www1.eere.energy.gov/wind/resources.html.