Keep renewable energy momentum

To the editor:

Even though the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 was far from perfect, it provided significant tax credits that have spurred billions in clean energy investment across the country — including right here in Portland and Jay County, Indiana.

These investments are helping drive us toward energy independence while strengthening our local economy.

Our energy system is not currently equipped to meet the rising demand driven by expanded manufacturing, data centers, AI infrastructure and residential growth. That’s why an “all of the above” energy approach is crucial — and why clean energy, which can be deployed quickly and at scale, plays such a vital role. These technologies, backed by tax incentives, are filling immediate gaps in energy supply and creating long-term infrastructure.

Since 2022, Indiana has seen nearly $9 billion invested in 52 clean energy projects. These developments mean thousands of construction and permanent jobs. In Jay County, local farmers and developers have made major commitments based on existing incentives, using them to build long-term business plans. Undoing or changing these incentives midstream would undercut private investment and halt development already underway.

Clean energy has also become a lifeline for local governments. Revenue from wind and solar projects is one of the only sustainable ways we have to fund essential services like roads and public safety without relying solely on grants. In Jay County, this is a practical solution with real results.

Nationally, solar manufacturing is booming, with over $40 billion in new investment since 2022. These benefits are reaching rural and red districts across the country — not just urban centers. Yes, fiscal responsibility is important, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of strategic investments that support American workers, businesses and communities like ours.

Let’s not lose ground on this momentum.

Bryan Alexander

Portland

Editor’s note: Alexander is a member of Jay County Council.