Wind
can supply 12% of global electricity demand by 2020
30 June
2005
Greenpeace
and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) today launched 'Windforce
12', a global wind energy blueprint which describes the role wind
power can play in tackling the threat of climate change, meeting
rising demands for energy, and safeguarding the security of energy
supplies.
Wind energy is one of the most effective power technologies we have.
It is now ready for global deployment on a scale that can help tackle
these problems. Wind power can be installed far more quickly than
conventional power stations, which is a significant factor in economies
with rapid growth in electricity demand.
Wind energy is a significant and powerful resource. It is safe,
clean, and abundant. Unlike conventional fuels, wind is a massive
indigenous power source, and is permanently available in virtually
every nation in the world.
It terms of energy security, wind power avoids the economic and
supply risks associated with imported fuels, and limits political
dependence on other countries.
Wind Force 12 demonstrates that there are no technical, economic
or resource barriers to supplying 12% (1,250 GW) of the world's
electricity needs with wind power alone by 2020 - and this against
the challenging backdrop of a projected two thirds increase of electricity
demand by that date.
Today's
wind industry is capable of becoming a dynamic, innovative E80
billion annual business by 2020, helping to satisfy global energy
demands and unlock a new era of economic growth, technological
progress and environmental protection. It is one the world's fastest
growing energy sectors and offers the best opportunity to begin
the transition to a global economy based on sustainable energy.
Download the report in PDF format here.
Read the Windforce12 press release in full here.
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