North American Windpower: Western Governors Urge Congress To Extend Wind Energy PTC

by NAW Staff on Monday 10 December 2012

The Western Governors Association (WGA) called on Congress on Dec. 7 to extend the production tax credit for wind energy rather than let it expire at the end of December.

In a letter to U.S. House and Senate leaders, the WGA wrote that extending the PTC now is critical to achieving the country's clean energy goals, building the nation's manufacturing base, creating jobs, lowering energy costs and strengthening domestic energy security.

The governors note that in 2011 alone, the wind industry provided over 30,000 good-paying manufacturing, construction and other jobs in the Western states. Continued policy uncertainty, note the governors, will result in developers stopping turbine orders for installation beyond this year, leading to the further loss of American jobs.

"While the PTC is vital to the near-term future of renewable energy production in the Western United States and across the nation, we agree that the credit should not exist in perpetuity," said Gov Gary R. Herbert, R-Utah, chairman of the Western Governors Association, and Gov. John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., WGA vice chairman.

The governors note the short-term extension should be coupled with a broader conversation about revisiting all energy-related tax credits.

Don't miss the latest wind energy news -- register to receive NAW's news headlines.

Latest Top Stories

As U.S. DOJ Investigates, Duke Works Adaptive Management Plan

With previous golden eagle fatalities reported at two company-owned wind farms in Wyoming, Duke Energy Renewables is going to great lengths to protect raptors.

DOE To Recast Landmark 20% Wind Energy Report; Study Looks Back, Ahead

The U.S. Department of Energy will update its 20% Wind Energy By 2030 report, which indicated increased levels of wind penetration for the U.S. is not only possible but feasible.

Wind Energy Procurement Top Of Mind For Big-Name Companies

With greater frequency, top-tier companies are discovering the economic and environmental power of wind energy and upping their investments in the resource.

WINDPOWER Panelists Issue A Call To Arms: Protect RPS Mandates

Votes on several legislative bills concerning state renewable portfolio standards (RPS) are nearing. How can you help protect and maintain these development drivers?

Wind Industry Still Awaits First Eagle-Take Permit Under BGEPA

The first wind developer to apply for a take permit under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act has withdrawn its application.