Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, NextEnergy, Shepherd Advisors Collaborate on a Market Diversification Opportunity Brief Focused on Utility-Scale Wind Power Systems. Available for no fee download at MMTC Website

PLYMOUTH, Mich., May 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, NextEnergy, and Shepherd Advisors have collaborated to issue a Market Diversification Opportunity Brief focused on Utility-Scale Wind Power Systems. With attention focused on higher energy prices, calls for renewable power sources from state governments, and rising environmental awareness among consumers and corporations, do opportunities exist for Michigan manufacturers in the utility-scale market? The brief is positive that opportunities exist. The statistics-packed report cites an average annual industry growth rate of 29% between 2000-2006 and projects growth in the market of over $5 billion annually from 2008-2015. The report provides an informative snapshot of domestic demand, subsystems parts and components, key players, issues and contact references. Funding for the report was provided through a grant to NextEnergy by the 21st Century Jobs Fund and is available for download at http://www.mmtc.org/download/Wind_Power.aspx. About MMTC Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC) provides Michigan's small to medium size manufacturers with operational assessment, technical assistance, training and mentoring services, and market diversification counsel. MMTC is the Michigan affiliate of Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership through the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Clients of the MMTC reported during the most recent full year impact survey; sales gains of $38.6 million, retention of $61.7 million in sales, investments of $30 million, cost savings of $18.3 million and 956 jobs created or retained as a direct result of their work with MMTC. Headquartered in Plymouth, the MMTC has five affiliate offices around the state (Grand Rapids, Flint, Saginaw, Traverse City and Marquette) to serve Michigan manufacturers. MMTC was named the 2007 Non-Profit of the Year by Automation Alley.