 The Governors' Wind Energy Coalition released recently its 2010 Wind Energy Recommendations. The full report (available here) is entitled "Great Expectations: U.S. Wind Energy Development". Here's a summary of its recommendations:
Adopt a Renewable Electricity Standard
The nation's wind energy industry and supporting infrastructure will not reach their full potential unless the nation sets a minimum requirement for the use of renewable electricity.
Develop New Interstate Electric Transmission System
Infrastructure as Needed to Provide Access to Premier Renewable Energy both On-Shore and Offshore Developing the states' rich domestic renewable resources will require improvements to the electric transmission system.
Support Coastal, Deep Water, Offshore Wind Energy Technology Research and Development
If the nation is to meet the goal of providing 20 percent of its electric needs from wind power by 2030 and then continue wind's expansion to provide even greater contributions in both the electricity and the transportation sectors, it must develop and use all the nation's wind energy resources, including the rich wind areas along the nation's coastal and Great Lake states.
Streamline Permitting Processes for Both Offshore and On-Shore Wind Development Projects
Congress must approve legislation that will allow for the efficient and timely review of wind projects on federal lands and in off shore coastal regions. While legislation is needed to improve the permitting process, dramatically improved coordination among state, federal and industry participants is equally important.
Dramatically Expand Wind Research, Innovation, and Collaboration
Wind power technology is one of the best economic development opportunities for our states. Production of wind energy components and systems can help revitalize the manufacturing sector, and will provide substantial benefits to the nation's economy through domestic and export markets.
Extend the Treasury Department Grant Program Created by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and Adopt a Long-Term Renewable Energy Production Tax Credit (PTC) with Provisions to Broaden the Pool of Investors Eligible to Participate
An extension of the Treasury Department grant program is necessary while financial markets continue to recover. Over the longer-term, the Production Tax Credit, which has been the primary federal incentive for wind energy, should be extended for at least five years to provide a stable incentive for wind energy investment. |
