Wind could do great things to boost Wyoming’s economy, according to a recent NREL study. Analysts there have examined the economic impact of wind development in the state, on behalf of the Wyoming infrastructure Authority. The study considered factors such as power line construction and the growth of natural gas power production used to back up wind energy sources. According to analysts, this development would create 47,000 jobs and provide $2.6 billion in wages and benefits. Over all, the development could add as much as $5.1 billion to state’s economy.
Researchers expect wind jobs, wages, and spending to peak in 2016 and again 2019. However, as projects phase into normal operations the economic impact will flatten out. Also, when considering construction and 20 years of operation, wind energy investments could boost the state’s economy to between $12 billion and $15 billion. Bottom line: there is certainly potential for in-state manufacturing, education, and job training.
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