Dear Ms. Millar:
Thank you for contacting me regarding your support for the Barrington wind turbine project. I agree that the rapid development of clean, renewable energy sources, including wind power, is an absolutely necessary step in the fight to protect the environment and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and appreciate hearing from you regarding this important issue.
As you know, I have been a strong advocate for alternative, renewable energy in the United States Senate. I was proud to support the renewable energy and efficiency tax credits in the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, including a one-year extension of the expiring production tax credit for wind projects. I have also been, and continue to be, a supporter of the Cape Wind project, the first offshore wind farm in the United States. As we begin to shift away from fossil fuels and towards a green economy, we must continue to support innovations in all renewable energy sources like wind power.
I believe that smaller projects, like the Barrington Wind Energy Project (WEP), can also be very beneficial. Using the project for educational purposes ensures that the next generation of Rhode Island citizens and leaders will understand first-hand the advantages that renewable energy can provide.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me on this important issue. I look forward to learning more about the WEP as it progresses and I hope you will continue to let me know about any future Committee for Renewable Energy for Barrington projects.
Sincerely,
Sheldon