In the great state of Indiana, we pride ourselves on our energy independence, excellence in our economies, and creation of jobs that citizens want. I authored Senate Bill 411 and sponsored House Bill 1381 to ensure decades of affordable, reliable, clean energy. It would be an asset to communities in need of economic investment and families desperate for a financial break. As a state, we must work together to advance domestic energy in our backyards and ensure reliable transmission by modernizing the grid.
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With $8 billion invested in wind and solar projects in the state, clean energy delivers value by meeting the demands of energy consumers and improving Hoosier’s way of life. Clean energy projects have resulted in $26 million in property, state and local taxes this year alone. In communities hosting clean energy projects, this means a lower tax burden for residents and a new source of funding for community improvements.
Former Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette argues renewable energy is an “important component” to moving the economy forward, with reliable transmission being a crucial element. Indiana already has 9,824 clean energy jobs, and it’s projected that around 1.1 million Hoosiers will work in these green jobs in the future. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, wind technicians are the second fastest growing job in the country, while solar photovoltaic installers rank fifth – bringing new jobs and opportunities to stay in the heartland and make a decent living. Outside of direct operations, the renewable energy sector encourages job creation across the supply chain in manufacturing, transportation and construction; Local businesses are supported by increased economic activity during the construction phase of a project.
The renewable energy industry is one of the fastest growing industries, hiring and employing hundreds of thousands of Americans nationwide, securing our future energy independence and investing in American communities. Former Vice President Mike Pence believes we must unleash American energy to improve the economy – and I agree. Therefore, a reliable transmission grid like the Midcontinent Independent System Operator’s Long-Range Transmission Plan project will be able to inject more renewable energy into the grid, which will benefit Indiana.
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The former vice president isn’t the only person who knows clean energy is valuable to our state. The Indiana Conservative Alliance for Energy poll late last year showed strong support for renewable energy development statewide. As Indiana continues to invest in renewable energy and modernize the electric grid, we will gain a competitive advantage by bringing more business, jobs and revenue to our communities while delivering reliable energy.
Indiana is at a crossroads. In the transition to a clean energy economy, we cannot and do not want to stand aside any longer. We are moving toward a reliable, affordable renewable energy grid that is critical to our economy. By investing in clean energy, we are buying into our future as energy leaders.
Mark Messmer is a Republican Senator and Majority Leader of Jasper who serves as Chairman of Indiana’s Environment Committee and Joint Rules Committee. He also served as a member of the Indiana House of Representatives from 2008 to 2014.
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