The History of AWEA and the U.S. Wind Industry

Home Wind 101 History of Wind

U.S. wind power has a rich history full of political leadership and technological innovation – often guided by the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) and its members.

Explore our timeline to learn about the evolution of this American success story, from the early 1970s to today.

Oil Prices Skyrocket & AWEA Emerges

1970's

Oil Prices Skyrocket & AWEA Emerges

U.S. wind energy grows in California, then stagnates nationwide

1980's

U.S. wind energy grows in California, then stagnates nationwide

Hard times for the wind industry, but new energy tax credits gain ground

1990's

Hard times for the wind industry, but new energy tax credits gain ground

The U.S. wind industry and AWEA expand exponentially

2000's

The U.S. wind industry and AWEA expand exponentially