Wind generation predicted greater than hydro in 2003

Wind stations will generate more electricity than hydro stations in Germany in 2003 if development continues at the current rate, predicts the Internationale Wirtschaftsforum Regenerative Energien (IWR) at the university of Münster. "In 2001 wind will generate about 13 TWh, up from 9.1 TWh in 2000. By 2003 the figure should exceed 20 TWh, overtaking hydropower, which is current renewables leader," states IWR. "Hydro power stations, not including electricity generated by pumped storage plant, generated around 20 TWh in 1999 and in 2000 and we don't expect much expansion of hydro to come," says Norbert Allnoch, head of IWR. The combined output of all renewable energy in Germany will contribute 8% to nationwide electricity generation in 2001, rising to 10% in 2003, reports IWR. "Wind energy is showing the fastest growth rate, followed by bioenergy," it adds.