Gordon Votes To Spur Growth In Manufacturing, Construction

WASHINGTON – Congressman Bart Gordon voted to boost the American clean energy economy by creating nearly 170,000 jobs and saving American families $9 billion over 10 years through incentives for efficient upgrades in homes.

The Home Star Energy Retrofit Act would provide rebates to homeowners who install energy-saving products and reduce energy use in their homes. Homeowners would see their energy costs lowered, and manufacturers and construction workers would see a boom in employment opportunities.

“This bill is a win for families, a win for energy efficiency, and a win for the construction and manufacturing industries that have recently taken so many hits,” Gordon said. “As we face both economic and energy challenges, this bill would put Tennesseans back to work, lower the monthly expenses for hard-working families and make our nation more energy independent.”

The bill features two programs that will help an estimated 3 million American homeowners. The Silver Star program would provide rebates of up to $3,000 for the installation of proven energy-saving technologies, such as insulation, duct sealing, window and door improvements, air sealing, and advanced water heaters. The Gold Star program provides homeowners with a rebate up to $8,000 for conducting a comprehensive energy audit and making significant retrofits to substantially reduce home energy usage.

This bill would reenergize construction and manufacturing industries by boosting demand for American home energy products and installation services. More than 90 percent of the materials and products used in eligible measures are made in the United States. In the long run, it will help rebuild the nation’s economy by strengthening the growing clean energy industry.

Gordon has championed investments in Tennessee’s industry and green jobs sector throughout his career in Congress. As Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Gordon has promoted advancements in energy technology through his America COMPETES Act, which became law in 2007.

“The cheapest form of energy is the energy you don’t use,” Gordon said. “Families and companies are finding ways to cut down on energy use and save money. Supporting their efforts with research and smart economic policies has been one of my major priorities in Congress.”

The Home Star Energy Retrofit Act has received bipartisan support and has been endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the National Association of Home Builders. The bill now goes to the Senate for approval.