Michigan connected more wind farms to the power grid than almost every other state last year, according to a report released Thursday by the Pew Charitable Trusts.
Michigan added 175 megawatts of wind power in 2013 – more than 46 other states.
Much more wind power was added last year compared to other renewable energy sources like solar (1 MW) and biomass (10 MW). The report says the wind industry has dominated Michigan’s renewable energy portfolio, accounting for nearly 95% of renewable energy sources brought onto the grid from 2009 to 2013.
Wind power is also attracting more private investment than in most other states: more than $300 million last year.
The report says Michigan's manufacturing expertise, state policies mandating renewable energy, and tax incentives have given the industry a big boost in the last few years
