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ACGA Disappointed By Lack Of Congressional Action For Advancement of Wind Energy
(Dec. 27, 2001 -- CropChoice news) -- The American Corn Growers Association (ACGA), the national agricultural leader in support of wind power development, expresses disappointment in Congress for its inability to extend the wind energy Production Tax Credit. The credit expires December 31, 2001.
A two-year extension of the credit was included in the economic stimulus package that Congress had been debating. Differences between Democrats and Republicans blocked the package, which is now delayed until Congress reconvenes next year.
"Congressional inaction has the potential to grind the current momentum for wind power development to a halt," said Larry Mitchell, Chief Executive Officer of the ACGA. "With over 1,600 megawatts of new wind capacity installed in 2001, it is vital that we continue this growth into 2002 so farmers and rural communities have the opportunity to reap the potential benefits."
The ACGA will be working with Congressional leaders to pass the Production Tax Credit as soon as they come back into session in January. "Not only will the ACGA be pushing for a five-year extension, but we will also work to make the extension retroactive to the first of the year," added Mitchell.
"The ACGA introduced their Wealth From the Wind Program to facilitate agricultural involvement in wind generation development. The Production Tax Credit is an important tool in the continued development of this renewable, decentralized, diverse and domestic energy source to expand and proliferate," concluded Mitchell.
The American Corn Growers Association represents 14,000 members in 35 states. For more information, please visit their website at www.ACGA.org
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