The U.S. House of Representatives could vote as early as this week on a proposal to extend the production tax credit by three years and the investment tax credit by eight years. Long-term extensions -- rather than the 1- to 2-year extensions that have been enacted previously -- are necessary to assure companies eager to invest billions of dollars that the nation is committed to developing and advancing the use of clean, renewable technologies.

The Governor sent the following letter to Pennsylvanias U.S. representatives and senators:

Dear PA Congressional delegation,

Pennsylvanias renewable energy production industry has experienced tremendous growth since 2004, but the prospect of losing the federal investment and protection tax credits available to these projects could undermine our potential for additional jobs and a more secure homeland.

The commonwealth has attracted more than $1 billion in private economic investments since enacting the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act in 2004. These projects have created 3,000 jobs for our hardworking men and women in manufacturing, research and development, operations and maintenance, transportation and construction positions. Many of these jobs are in the solar and wind sectors.

In Pennsylvania, as in other states, many renewable energy companies are considering new projects that will create similar jobs, but firms are unwilling to commit the billions of dollars these projects promise because of the uncertainty associated with the renewable energy tax credits.

Pennsylvania alone, according to a recent study by the American Wind Energy Association and the Solar Energy Industries Association, stands to lose nearly 2,000 jobs by the end of 2009 if these credits are not renewed. Nationwide, job losses could exceed 116,000 -- many of which could affect the declining U.S. manufacturing sector.

The renewable energy tax credits are a valuable tool in diversifying our energy supply and moving us closer to energy independence. The tax credits help to level the playing field by making renewable energy projects financially viable and competitive with conventional sources.

If we can spur the development of solar, wind, geothermal and biomass technologies, we can help meet our nations energy needs while reducing our dependence on foreign oil, which is heavily subsidized. Simply put, our country's continued appetite for imported petroleum is putting America's interests at risk.

I urge you to support the long-term extension of the renewable energy investment and production tax credits. The proposed eight-year extension now before Congress will provide stability and reassurance to the market that the United States is committed to renewable energy technologies. That kind of commitment will lead to good-paying jobs, stronger national security, and a brighter future for America.

Sincerely,

Edward G. Rendell

Governor

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