China wind surge prompts U.S. industry warning

“If this isn’t the ‘case-closed’ evidence that America must have stable renewable energy policy and hard targets in order to create jobs and revitalize our economy, I don’t know what is,” she said of the data about China’s expansion.

Bode called for enactment of a national renewable electricity standard, a longstanding priority for renewables advocates and many Democrats that would require utilities to supply escalating amounts of power from sources like wind, solar and biomass.

A renewables standard (albeit one weaker than the industry wants) is part of the sweeping energy and climate bill the House passed last year. A similar mandate is included in energy legislation the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has approved. But prospects for final congressional action are uncertain.