We have 60 votes for an RES amendment and will continue to push for its consideration in this bill. Senator Brownback’s statements about the RES demonstrate the bipartisan support that exists for such an amendment. Democrats, Republicans, environmental groups, labor unions, and companies across the country all strongly support the RES because it is essential for creating hundreds of thousands of American jobs, reducing carbon emissions, and increasing American independence from foreign oil.

The US wind industry is in distress. Today we announced that with only 700 megawatts added in the second quarter, wind power installations to date this year have dropped by 57% and 71% from 2008 and 2009 levels, respectively and manufacturing investment also continues to lag below 2008 and 2009 levels. An RES is a critical component to ensure the US wind industry thrives.