Letter to House - Pass Bill H.R. 5984 "Clean Energy Tax Stimulus Act of 2008"

Written to Kevin Brady, Representative from Texas on July 18, 2008

I believe it is in the best interests of our national economy and security to increase the use of alternative fuels. As you are a co-sponsor of H.R. 5984, Clean Energy Tax Stimulus Act of 2008, it appears you share this interest.

I am interested in the extension of the 30% residential solar tax credit through 2009 and the removal of the existing $2,000 tax credit limit. I am concerned that this bill, having been referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means back on May 7, is not likely to get passed in time to avoid the expiration of the existing residential solar tax credit at the end of this year.

I would prefer that this tax credit be extended for more than one year, but just getting this bill passed in its current form is a start.

My electric supplier is a cooperative and is exempt from the state requirement to support net-metering. The economics of using residential solar panels is highly dependent on being able to sell some electricity back into the grid. I encourage you to consider steps that would require all public utilities and electric cooperatives to support the purchase of electricity from residential generation.

I hope you and the other many co-sponsors can use your influence to bring this important bill to a vote and pass it this year.

Thank you for your help.