[OKC] FW: Alternative Energy Legislation Passes House

[Shauna Struby]

From: Sasha Bradley [mailto:sashabradley at okhouse.gov] 
Sent: Monday, March 09, 2009 4:13 PM
To: Sasha Bradley
Subject: Alternative Energy Legislation Passes House 

 



 

Oklahoma House of Representatives

Media Division

March 9, 2009

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: State Rep. Randy Terrill                                  

Capitol: (405) 557-7346                                              

 

Alternative Energy Legislation Passes House 

 

OKLAHOMA CITY -To save on energy costs, to grow Oklahoma businesses and help
the environment, state Rep. Randy Terrill filed legislation to provide tax
incentives for using alternative energy sources.

 

House Bill 2247, by Terrill, offers consumers tax credits for installing
solar energy equipment and small wind turbines. The bill passed the Oklahoma
House of Representatives today.

 

"This gives homeowners, farmers and businesses a helping hand by providing
an alternative to high energy costs, plus it cuts down on air pollution by
promoting clean air energy," said Terrill, R-Moore.  

 

Currently, Norman is home to Bergey Windpower Co., one of the world's
leading suppliers of small wind turbines.  President Mike Bergey said
Oklahomans should be able to make good use of that "darn Oklahoma wind" by
installing a wind turbine, greatly reducing their electric bill, and helping
the environment. Right now the equipment takes quite a few years to pay
itself off, but a state tax credit would help make the investment more
attractive.

 

"By supporting this bill Oklahoma is supporting its own and leading national
manufacturers of wind power equipment, creating new jobs and boosting the
economy.  By creating a local retail market, the bill would allow us to
lower our manufacturing costs and improve our competitiveness in the other
49 States.  We think it's a smart economic development investment," said
Bergey.

 

House Bill 2247 gives consumers a non-transferable tax credit equal to 40
percent of the total cost of installation for solar and wind energy systems
including construction and equipment costs.  The tax credit can be carried
forward for up to 10 years after installation.

 

"By supporting this bill, Oklahomans can support home-grown manufacturers of
wind power equipment and expand local markets, creating new jobs and
boosting the economy," said Terrill. "As House Speaker Chris Benge tries to
make Oklahoma a leader in alternative energy, both solar and wind power
should have stronger emphasis in the state.  I am glad to work with House
leadership in this important effort."

 

Terrill said the initial cost of installation and equipment for energy
alternatives keeps many Oklahomans from taking that step. However, he said
the cost savings on electric and gas bills, plus the tax credits available
through the bill, would more than offset the upfront expenses.

 

"This legislation is a win-win situation for the consumer, for the
environment and for the economy," said Terrill.

 

House Bill 2247 passed the full House on a 94-5 vote and now proceeds to the
Senate for a hearing.

-30-

 

 

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