As the American Wind Energy Association's (AWEA) undertakes its Fall Symposium in Phoenix, Arizona, the U.S. wind sector experienced its slowest quarter since 2007. AWEA's annual meeting will focus on the challenges the industry is facing, such as the lack of long-term U.S. energy policies and utilities that are not proceeding with wind build-out plans.

"The importance of building a strong renewable energy manufacturing base in the U.S. cannot be overstated," said Denise Bode, AWEA CEO. "With domestic content increasing to over 50 percent, the U.S. wind industry creates American jobs and reduces our dependence on foreign oil - and is the fastest-growing manufacturing sector in the country. Even in the depth of the recession, our industry has been a bright spot in the U.S economy. The AWEA Fall Symposium is where the key players meet and recommit to powering a stronger and cleaner America."

China and Europe already have long-term energy policies, and are expected to invest more than $35 billion combined towards wind projects in 2010, four times the investment project for the United States this year.

General Colin Powell will deliver the keynote speech, which is entitled "Diplomacy: Persuasion, Trust and Values."