The United Steelworkers (USW) Union urged Congress Tuesday to extend renewable energy tax credits for wind, solar and biomass energies.
USW President, Leo W. Gerard, argued that extending the government tax credits on renewable energy, which are set to expire in December 2008, would provide a much-needed boost to the US economy.
"Failing to extend these tax credits will be detrimental to the industries that benefit from them and to America's job growth," Gerard declared.
Gerard also argued that extending the renewable energy tax credits would help revitalize the domestic manufacturing and construction industries, citing a report issued by the Center for American Progress that said two million job opportunities could become available for the manufacturing and construction industries if investments are made in the clean energy economy.
Both the House of Representatives and the Senate have passed versions of a renewable energy tax credits extension, but the House and Senate still need to reach an agreement on how to fund the credits, which is a main point of contention. The House and Senate both plan to meet later this week before adjourning until the end of election season.
"I urge both chambers to work on those differences before Congress adjourns," Gerard warned. "Our nation cannot afford to lose the 116,000 jobs the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) projects will be lost, if Congress fails to act."