Tagged: wind energy

Governor Sam Brownback is continuing his push for an extension of a wind energy tax credit. It helps make wind power cheaper, and it's set to expire at the end of the year.

The credit has driven the development of wind power. Brownback says the credit has a big impact on wind energy jobs in Kansas. He would like to see it phased out more slowly over the next three or four years.

"I don't disagree with those that believe this should be phased out. I think it should be, but I think just to go all of a sudden drop from 30 percent to zero in one year," says Brownback.

Council of economic advisors to the governor meets to discuss the aviation industry; Brownback speaks out about the wind Production Tax Credit; Case of electioneering surfaces in McPherson.

Gov.'s Council Meets To Discuss Growth In Aviation

The Kansas Governor's Council of Economic Advisors met in Wichita yesterday to discuss ways of increasing revenue - and the global competitiveness of the aviation industry.

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GOP Senators Say Problem Gambling Money Misspent

Two Republican state senators say even if the governor approves a request for increased funding to help problem gamblers, the money probably won’t be spent where it was intended under Kansas law.

Gary Haulmark of the Department for Aging and Disability Services has asked for a $3.5 million boost for problem gambling services. Senator Carolyn McGinn, of Sedgwick, wants lawyers for that department to justify how the money is being spent.

The company Siemens will lay off around 150 workers at their facility in Hutchinson.

The plant builds parts for wind turbines. The company blames a slowdown in wind turbine orders.

Siemens officials say uncertainty about a federal tax credit has slowed new wind power development, so they’re selling fewer wind turbines.

The credit helps pay for installing wind turbines, and it’s set to expire at the end of this year.

The company also says more natural gas power plants and the economy have slowed sales.