The National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA) released its January Electroindustry Business Confidence Index (EBCI) for current North American conditions, beginning 2012 on a high note. The survey showed a positive outlook for a fourth consecutive month, sustaining a positive trend that signifies growth in the industry.

January’s survey rose to 54.2 points, meaning more respondents reported conditions improved since December. The index measured 52 in December, down slightly from 56 in November and 57.4 points in October. November and December’s results showed a downward trend from the October high point, but January suggested a rebound. NEMA considers any result exceeding 50 points as an improving business environment.

Meanwhile, the survey’s measure of the intensity of change in current North American conditions rebounded to +0.1 from December’s 0.0. In November, it measured +0.2.

Confidence in future conditions climbed to an eight month high as January’s EBCI for future North American conditions soared to 79.2, the highest reading since May 2011, affirming that expectations for the business environment over the next six months remain positive.

Overall, according to the EBCI trend that spanned the new year, it seems respondents expect to see business conditions improve in 2012.