Study Shows Diversity in US Solar Market

In 2011, American renewable energy investment in solar and wind technologies dominated the global market, propelling the United States past China into the leadership position, according to Ernst & Young's latest quarterly, "Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Index (CAI)," released today. Ernst & Young also issued a new forward-looking report—"United States Renewable Attractiveness Indices"—that benchmarks the US state investments that were the driving force behind this shift, offering insight into the nation's diverse renewable energy markets, energy infrastructures and their suitability for individual technologies. Most notably, the report highlights that, despite uncertain macroeconomic conditions, renewable energy—particularly in states like Massachusetts, Colorado, Texas and California—is positioned very favorably to benefit from future investments.

While California's dominance of the All Renewables Index was anticipated, the top five rankings of states like Colorado, Massachusetts and Texas demonstrate a commitment to growing energy infrastructures across the nation. For instance, New Mexico and Colorado came in second and third respectively in the All Renewable Index because of consistent growth and strong potential across all renewable energy technologies. Massachusetts and Texas tied for fifth with a strong draw for solar and wind investment respectively.

In addition to providing a baseline for future reports which will be released semiannually, the United States Renewable Attractiveness Indices looks at issues that will enhance or impair further development in the renewable energy markets, such as incentives like the Production Tax Credit, wind power's key incentive. The continuance of this tax credit would have a significant impact on what has become a thriving domestic manufacturing sector.