Wind power companies say tax breaks needed for jobs - KWWL

A group of wind power executives says a stalled effort to renew federal tax credits for the industry is creating instability and financial concerns, making it difficult to keep employees on the payroll and plan for expansion.

Meanwhile, former presidential aides Karl Rove and Robert Gibbs told wind power executives Tuesday at their annual conference that there is bipartisan support for the tax credits, but a tough political climate between now and the November presidential election makes a quick resolution unlikely.

The production tax credit has been the primary cost-saving policy for the industry.  It expires at the end of the year.

Executives say extending the tax measure is not just a benefit for suppliers and manufacturers, but is a boon for an industry that employs an estimated 30,000 people.