Michigan's wind energy industry sputters

[OKIsItJustMe]

http://www.detnews.com/article/20100107/BIZ/1070369/1448/LIFESTYLE14/Michigan-s-wind-energy-industry-sputters

Last Updated: January 07. 2010 1:00AM

Michigan's wind energy industry sputters

Christina Rogers / The Detroit News

Michigan's once fast-growing wind energy industry has begun to lose speed, despite state leaders offering millions of dollars in tax credits to spur growth in this renewable energy sector.

Last year, demand for wind turbines and parts plummeted due to the global financial collapse. And because many wind farm developers lack access to credit, they have put their plans on hold, curtailing orders for Michigan manufacturers making parts for these towering electricity generators.

The slowdown comes as Michigan economic development officials remain committed to growing this fledgling industry and are banking on it to help counter auto industry job losses. University of Michigan economists estimate the state lost 950,000 jobs, or 20.3 percent of its work force, between mid-2000 and last year.

Job growth uncertain

State officials say it's too early to tell whether wind suppliers receiving tax credits are delivering on their job growth promises because the agreements give them several years to hit hiring targets.

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[murray hill farm]

1. That is really, really sad to hear!

Michigan is the perfect place for this industry....and the perfect place for use of wind energy also.

[TxRider]

2. Yup

I would certainly rather see a giant wind turbine heading south into Texas from Michigan every 20 minutes, than watch an imported one roll north out of the port of Houston every 20 minutes.