US In Danger of Losing Top Renewable Energy Ranking
With the federal government relatively inactive in the area, states have been at the forefront of the shaping of renewable energy policies in the United States. With critical developments taking place in the industry on an almost weekly basis, Ernst & Young has published an updated version of its Renewable Energy Attractiveness Index.
The index ranks both countries and US states in terms of their renewable energy capacities and policies.
The United States retained its number one ranking due to the potential for investment in the country’s renewable energy resource, notably wind power, and for its infrastructure. However, it is in danger of falling behind other nations, “largely as a result of the Energy Independence & Security Act of 2007,” which phases out the production tax credit at the end of this year.
Germany retains second place, and India third.
Texas and California remain at the top of the “All Renewables” States index, thanks largely to their past investments in wind technology. Minnesota moved up to 10th from 21st spot due to its long-term wind potential.
Oregon, meanwhile, lost a large number of places in the Long Term Solar Energy Index,” due to the failure of the state’s new tax credit to inspire significant investment in solar energy.
The report also includes an article focussing on geothermal power, which has great potential in the US, but faces significant obstacles.
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