Wind group launches TV, online ad push for renewables standard

The wind industry’s main trade group is revving up its push for legislation creating a national renewable-electricity standard (RES) in the waning weeks of the 111th Congress.

The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) will begin airing 30-second TV spots in Washington, D.C., cable markets Tuesday touting proposals that would require many utilities to supply escalating amounts of power from renewable sources in coming years.

“America needs clean energy and America needs jobs. Wind power can deliver on both but only if the Senate encourages investment by passing a strong RES,” the ads state. The ads will run for a week, and the campaign also features online spots, according to AWEA, which has timed the ads to greet the return of senators from the summer recess.

“It is all to support and push home the call for an RES now that everyone is back in town,” said AWEA spokeswoman Sarah Howell.

AWEA’s campaign is part of a burst of lobbying and political messaging by advocates hoping to salvage an RES, which was jettisoned from the main Senate Democratic energy bill over the summer.

The Governors' Wind Energy Coalition is circulating a letter Monday to senators, while other groups are planning press conferences and other actions later this week.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said in July he’s doubtful an RES can attract 60 votes, but he has more recently opened the door to trying to revive the measure in a lame-duck energy bill.

The House passed an RES last year as part of a sweeping climate change and energy bill, but the broader climate package is dead for the year.