As Auto Industry Stumbles, Renewables Boom in the Midwest

"The promise of wind and other forms of renewable energy has cast a ray of hope into an otherwise bleak economy, especially in the industrial Midwest.

'A couple years ago, there weren't that many people interested,' says Edward Wolking, head of the Great Lakes Manufacturing Council. 'Now they're just beating doors down.'

For those hoping renewable-energy technologies will save the economy of the Midwest, there's a long way to go."

The void left by the auto industry doesn't look to be filled any time soon by the renewable energy industry, but strong growth and increased demand are offering signs of hope for manufacturers.