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 Wind Power & Public Policy For states rich in wind resources, supporting the development of wind power is good public policy, bringing clean, secure and economical power to market for decades. Like most energy sources, wind power development is largely affected by state and federal energy policies. Two key needs to bring about success of wind are universal: 1. Consistent long term policies to create a market for wind power Getting the full benefits of wind power use and development requires long term policy support. Short term policies have shown to be ineffective in building a robust wind industry. Wind development employs supporting industries such as trucking, steel fabrication, telecommunications and others. This economic activity rises and falls with wind development. Setting consistent, long-term policies that encourage steady growth will strengthen the wind industry and the many jobs which are supported by it. 2. Infrastructure to support the use of wind power Wind power cannot reach its customers without power lines. While wind farms can be developed in as little as one year, transmission lines can take five years or more. Establishing wind power development as a public policy priority must include short and long-range transmission planning and development.  State Policy Profiles Texas' market-based approach to encouraging renewable energy development has made the Lone Star State a leader in the region. New Mexico's goal of 10% renewable energy usage by 2011 has already spurred development of its excellent wind sites. Additional states within the Southwest Power Pool have incentives that help get projects built.
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