AWEA statement on Rick Perry’s confirmation as Secretary of Energy

The following is a statement from Tom Kiernan, CEO of the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) on Rick Perry’s confirmation as Secretary of Energy:

“Secretary Perry’s leadership on wind energy infrastructure as governor of Texas helped attract tens of billions of dollars in private investment to rural communities, and create over 25,000 wind jobs in the state.

When he became governor in 2000, the state had less than 200 megawatts (MW) of wind power. When he left there were over 14,000 MW, and there are over 20,000 MW today, after $32.7 billion of private investment. He created a pro-business environment and fostered that investment by supporting competitive markets, and the Competitive Renewable Energy Zone (CREZ) transmission lines that tapped the low-cost wind power of West Texas. The result was a more diverse power grid that is more reliable, and that saves Texas consumers on their electric bills.

The Texas success story with wind power has now become a model for America. We were pleased to support Secretary Perry’s nomination, we congratulate him on his confirmation, and we look forward to working with him at the Department of Energy to keep this success story going.” – Tom Kiernan, CEO of the American Wind Energy Association.