Although the benefits from new deployment of wind energy in the U.S. Southeast have just begun, the region already sees job creation and economic development benefits through the wind energy's supply chain, according to the Southeastern Wind Coalition.
In partnership with the American Wind Energy Association and the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center, the group has launched the Southeast Wind Energy Industry Supply Chain Asset Map. The map highlights companies engaged in the full value chain of the industry, including those that manufacture components, provide services and conduct research associated with the wind industry.
According to the group, over 100 companies in the Southeast are currently captured within the database, and the online tool will help identify more assets within the region as additional companies discover this resource. Additionally, the map identifies other companies that are not currently engaged in the industry but have the potential to become involved.
"Our region already has thousands of jobs in the wind industry, and this map provides an opportunity to educate our policymakers on the economic-development benefits we already receive from the wind industry," says Henry Campen, partner at Parker Poe and Southeastern Wind Coalition board chair.
A "Learn about Wind" page provides information on what activities are included in each industry sector (nacelle, professional services, field services, blades/rotor, tower, foundation, transmission/electrical, marine trades and research/workforce) and provides background for those not familiar with wind energy. The interactive map allows for sorting by industry sector, state, and whether a company is currently engaged in the industry. The option to create a print-out of the selected categories provides a simple way to share the data with decision makers. Companies that are not yet in the database can create a free profile here.
Meanwhile, the map is available here.
