Nine U.S. senators have written to Sens. John Kerry, D-Mass.; Joseph Lieberman, I-Conn.; and Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., calling for provisions to address manufacturing competitiveness that must be included in clean energy legislation.

 

In the letter, the senators, led by Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, outline essential provisions that they believe are necessary for clean energy legislation that will strengthen American manufacturing competiveness, create new opportunities for clean energy jobs and create a level playing field for domestic manufacturers.

 

"We must not allow our nation to become dependent on foreign clean energy industries or squander the opportunity to compete successfully in the global clean energy marketplace," says Brown. "A strong manufacturing base is crucial if the United States is to build the clean energy technologies of the future and achieve energy independence."

 

The letter calls for clean energy legislation to include the following measures:

 

- Provide assistance for retooling and clean energy manufacturing;

 

- Support research, development and deployment of low-carbon industrial technologies;

 

- Support American manufacturers of clean energy technologies;

 

- Provide full funding for rebates to energy-intensive, trade-exposed industries; and

 

- Clarify federal and state greenhouse gas standards.

SOURCE: solar industry