DES MOINES – Senator Rob Hogg (D-Cedar Rapids) is urging Iowans to contact the state’s congressional delegation in support of Iowa jobs, innovation and clean energy. Hogg says it is vital that Congress extend the production tax credit for wind energy and other forms of renewable energy before it expires December 31.
“The production tax credit has helped create thousands of jobs in Iowa and, just as importantly, spurred Iowa innovation that is improving renewable energy production,” Hogg said. “The production tax credit is one of the smartest investments our country has ever made in terms of jobs, innovation, and a safe, clean energy future for our children.”
This tax credit was directly responsible for MidAmerican’s investment of $1.9 billion in additional wind power earlier this year. It provides a 2.2 cent incentive for each kilowatt-hour of electricity generated. After becoming an issue in the Presidential campaign, it was extended for one year last January 1.
“This tax credit applies only to electricity actually generated. That’s why it strongly supports innovation and improvements in renewable electricity industries,” Hogg said. “If we lose the credit, Iowa will lose jobs and innovation.”
Iowa’s congressional delegation is well positioned to extend the production tax credit, Hogg said, because of leadership positions held Congressmen Tom Latham and Steve King in the U.S. House, and the seniority of Senator Tom Harkin and Chuck Grassley in the U.S. Senate.
“We need Iowa’s congressional delegation to use its clout to extend the tax credit,” Hogg said.
Hogg is providing Iowans with a list of phone numbers for Iowa’s congressional delegation:
Senator Chuck Grassley, 202-224-3744
Senator Tom Harkin, 202-224-3154
Congressman Bruce Braley, 202-225-2911
Congressman Steve King, 202-225-4426
Congressman Tom Latham, 202-225-5476
Congressman Dave Loebsack, 202-225-6576
