Congress Not Acting on Credits Despite Job Fears

Two wind turbines stand near a traditional windmill on a farm, Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2008, near Mount Carmel, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

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By Belinda Yeung

Story Created: Sep 15, 2012 at 9:21 AM CDT

Story Updated: Sep 15, 2012 at 9:21 AM CDT

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — There is little hope Congress will act quickly to extend a federal energy tax credit for building wind turbines despite the likelihood that letting the program expire will lead to the loss of thousands of jobs.

The issue is especially important in Iowa, where an estimated 7,000 workers are employed in more than 250 businesses associated with the wind industry.

Columbus, Neb.-based wind tower manufacturer Katana Summit has blamed uncertainty about tax credit for a loss of business that could force the closure of plants in Columbus and Washington state.

Republican Sen. Charles Grassley says the full Senate likely won't debate a wind credit bill until after the November election.

The House has taken no action on its version.

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