In just 20 years, wind energy has become a viable alternative to fossil fuels, adopted by over 70 countries. 2010 saw cumulative installed capacities reach 197,712 MW, compared with 24,052 MW in 2001 – a 26.4% increase. Yearly installations have grown from 6,652 MW (2001) to 37,698 MW (2010).
Small wind turbine cumulative capacities have grown from 105.9 MW (2006) to 275.8 MW in (2010); forecast to reach 3,726.5 MW by 2020. Although small wind power represents just 0.14% of the 2010 market, this is set to increase to 0.48% by 2020, as government incentives come into play. North America, Canada and the UK represent 68% of the market, with the UK adoption rate increasing by over 65% between 2006 and 2010. This compares with a rate of just 29.8% for China, but this region is rapidly becoming a key manufacturing base for small wind turbine equipment.
The June 2011 Small Wind Turbines report comprises 106 pages of comprehensive data presented in the form of graphs, tables and charts, with additional commentary, to facilitate decision-making and develop strategies. It includes analysis of key manufacturers; historical, current and forecast statistics between 2006 and 2020; trends; product/technology information; drivers; opportunities, and political and legislative influences.
