Article published February 12, 2015
With 39 states using wind turbines, the United States generates the most wind energy in the world. Much of the recent investment and construction of wind technology can be attributed to the federal Production Tax Credit. This incentive provides financial support for the first ten years of an operation, and has been the cause of remarkable growth in wind technology across the states and a reduced reliance on fossil fuels as a whole.
Unfortunately, the tax credit expired at the end of 2014 and now it is up to Congress to propose an extension. For those that want to see a clean America and the many financial benefits that result, extending the Production Tax Credit is necessary to continued growth.
Wind energy in the U.S. began in New Hampshire, where the first wind farm was built 35 years ago. However, the increase in wind farm production really began in California, as it hosted 80 percent of all wind power worldwide in the 1980s. When the tax credit was introduced, more people got on board. It led to greater innovation, which translates into better, more efficient turbines. This means taller towers, longer blades, computerized controls, and better gearboxes. In addition, companies and organizations have been able to conduct studies to determine the safest way to build and run wind turbines in a way that protects wildlife and decreases pollution.
Not only does wind technology provide enough clean energy to power 18 million homes, it also supports more than 73,000 paying jobs each year. The entire supply chain benefits from the growth of wind energy. Local factories provide all the materials for construction, employing 500 factories in 43 states.
To continue seeing these enhancements to our energy future, the extension of the Production Tax Credit is crucial. Keeping wind power competitive benefits everyone and offering financial support to companies looking to invest in renewable energy is an added bonus that keeps people interested.
0 comments:
Post a Comment