Washington, D.C. – Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement on the 2015 annual report released today by the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA).
“AWEA’s annual report for 2015 affirms what we already know, which is that Colorado’s booming wind energy industry has strengthened our economy, reduced our dependence on foreign oil, and helped decrease our carbon footprint. More than 6,000 people work in wind related jobs in Colorado in counties from Pueblo, to Adams, to Weld, and beyond. Our state generates a larger percentage of its energy from wind than all but five other states, and we are fortunate to be home to companies like Vestas and RES America.
“During a recent visit to the Vestas plant in Windsor we witnessed the innovation and growth happening there. The plant employs more than 1,000 Coloradans and is currently undergoing its fourth expansion.
“Wind energy is an important piece of our diverse energy portfolio and a major economic driver for our state. Colorado’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to preserving our resources for the next generation make it the perfect place for this sector to thrive. Whether it’s the wind production tax credit or a technology neutral incentive, we will continue fighting to ensure that our tax code provides certainty and supports innovation and growth in the wind energy sector.”