Feb 3, 2010 1:34 PM | By Reuters
China installed more new wind turbines than either Europe or the United States last year, the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) says.
Credit: REUTERS
China nearly doubled its wind capacity in 2009 with 13 gigawatts of new generating capacity, compared to 10,5 gigawatts in Europe and 9,9 gigawatts in the United States.
Overall, the global industry employed around half a million people as it boosted capacity by 31% to 158 gigawatts.
“The continued rapid growth of wind power, despite the financial crisis and economic downturn, is testament to the inherent attractiveness of the technology,” GWEC secretary general Steve Sawyer said.
China has been criticised in many countries for its cautious stance at unsuccessful U.N. climate talks in Copenhagen in December, but it has not slowed its development of green power at home.
“The Chinese government is taking very seriously its responsibility to limit carbon dioxide emissions while providing energy for its growing economy,” said Li Junfeng, secretary general of the Chinese Renewable Energy Industries Association.
