Last Stand Director and Keys GLEE Director (among other titles) Jody Smith Williams has posted the following personal editorial message to the local newspapers....
Incentives running out
to install solar energyI have some good news and some bad news. The good news is that interest in clean, renewable energy is gaining major ground among businesses and citizens around the country. The bad news is that the federal investment tax credit for renewables expires at the end of 2008, and without something to replace it, the renewable energy industry will suffer an even greater unfair disadvantage compared to the heavily subsidized oil, gas and nuclear industries.
Already, renewable energy projects are being put on hold and overseas companies are picking up the slack left by America's inaction. Residents in Florida and other states who wish to get their own little piece of clean energy through solar installations are holding off while they wait to see if the government will commit to a clean energy future.
HR6049, the latest version of many bills aimed at extending the tax credit, has passed the House and will be presented to the Senate next week. The last time the bill came up for a vote, it failed to pass by one Senate vote. Florida Sen. Mel Martinez voted against this bill and John McCain did not show up. Either of these senator's yes vote would have made the difference.
Please let your senators know how important it is that they vote yes on HR6049. The August congressional recess is fast approaching and election mania will eclipse the attention of many in Congress once they return in September.
Visit www.Solar-Nation.org for an easy click-and-send option to send your message.
Jody Smith Williams
Key West
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