Montgomery County lawmaker Rep. Ellen M. Bard (R-153) has introduced legislation that would foster the development of wind energy generation in Pennsylvania.

" The situation in California and other potential crises on the horizon in other regions of the country spell the need to harness renewable energy sources, " Bard said. " Renewable energy is affordable and more friendly to the environment, and it will adequately buffer consumers against power shortages. It ’ s time to promote the creation of businesses that produce renewable energy. "

House Bill 1078, the Wind Energy Enterprise Act (WEEA), would allow designation of wind energy enterprises. Businesses created to sell electric power produced from wind energy could apply through the Department of Community and Economic and Development (DCED) for tax exemption privileges. Upon certification, such businesses would be exempt from sales and use tax. Businesses could maintain tax exemption status for a maximum of fifteen years and would be required to reapply for certification annually.

Persons or businesses investing in these electric power production businesses would be eligible for tax credits equal to the amount of money invested.

Finally, Bard ’ s legislation creates the $10 million Wind Energy Infrastructure Improvement Fund. DCED would administer the fund and could distribute grants to finance the establishment of proposed electric production businesses or the refurbishment of existing businesses.

Bard’s measure is part of a four-bill package designed to promote renewable energy resources. The bill package, which is now before the House Consumer Affairs Committee for consideration, would encourage on-site generation, green building design, and government purchase of power generated from renewable resources.