Last night, the Senate passed the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, H.R. 1424, containing a one-year extension of the crucial wind energy Production Tax Credit (PTC) through December 31, 2009. The bill also would create a new investment tax credit for purchases of small wind systems used to power homes, farms and small businesses.

Next, the bill must be approved by the full House of Representatives in a vote to follow. The House is likely to vote late today or tomorrow on the Senate package. Your voices are crucial in order to clear this final hurdle before Congress adjourns. This vote is the last opportunity this year for Congress to extend the PTC.

Wind energy is not only a significant component of the global warming solution, but also a powerful engine in the U.S. economy. Since January 2007, more than 40 wind industry manufacturing facilities have been announced, brought online, or expanded in the U.S., creating over 9,000 jobs and $1 billion in manufacturing investment. When the PTC has lapsed in the past, wind energy investments have fallen 73-93% in the following years. We cannot allow this bright spot in our economy to burn out.

We need your help in ensuring that the House will support and PASS the Senate package that was approved last night. Please contact your Representative and urge him or her to vote ‘Yes’ on the Economic Stabilization Bill, H.R. 1424.

I know that the bailout bill is very controversial, but if we are going to bail out these fat corporate whores on wallstreet we mines well get something out of it. A vibrant renewable energy sector will do more than any bailout to bring prosperity and sustainability to this nation. It’s a hard pill to swallow, but I say if we can get this PTC passed…well maybe it is worth it.