A hot wind is blowing in Dallas and it has nothing to do with the 90+ temperatures.  I’m at WINDPOWER 2010 and there’s no mistaking an industry on the move.  

This year’s conference has 200 more exhibitors than last year’s and attendance is expected to approach 20,000. Conversations on the floor are consistent with the Wind Industry Monitor poll – the industry in the U.S. needs a boost from a clear energy policy. There is particular support of a Renewable Electricity Standard. 

However, judging by the booths and traffic, companies are not taking a “wait-and-see” attitude.  They are obviously investing in sales and marketing judging by the size and complexity of the booths.  

Balancing the need for energy policy advocacy and immediate sales seems to be the most pressing communications issue they face.

(Guest contributor Ron Loch is a senior vice president at Gibbs & Soell Public Relations. He leads the firm’s Greentech & Sustainability Practice, collaborating with G&S colleagues specializing in advanced manufacturing and energy, agribusiness and food, consumer lifestyle and building solutions, professional services, and technology and general science.)