THE EVALUATION OF THE BENEFITS GENERATED BY THE INVESTMENTS IN WIND ENERGY

Starting from the economic effects of investments in wind energy, the authors search to answer the questions: What is the global energy balance determined by the investments in renewable energy? What are the economic, social and environmental effects? The answer to these questions has as starting point the cost - benefit analysis and the comparative analysis of the situation in the European energy market. The investment in wind energy production are, generally, generators of present benefits. If their recognition presents no obstacle, their quantification for the inclusion in the investor's business plan presents real difficulties. Sustainable development of economy and society requires also the focused action of all economic actors in solving current problems related to energy. Regarding this, the paper highlights the need for public support for the investment in wind energy projects, considering the generated benefits. Through benefits we understand the positive effects due to an investment, in economic, social and environmental area.