H.R.2133 - Lakes Before Turbines Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2133, the "Lakes Before Turbines Act," proposes to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to eliminate the investment tax credit (ITC) for offshore wind facilities specifically located in the inland navigable waters of the United States, with a particular focus on excluding the Great Lakes. The bill, introduced by Mr. Langworthy in the House of Representatives, targets projects initiated after December 31, 2022. It aims to modify Section 48(a)(5)(F)(ii) of the Internal Revenue Code.
The bill seeks to prioritize the preservation of the Great Lakes by removing a financial incentive for wind energy development in that region. This could potentially impact renewable energy projects and investments in the specified areas.
The Act's short title, "Lakes Before Turbines Act", suggests a prioritization of the ecological and economic value of lakes over the development of wind energy infrastructure.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.2133 would likely reduce or eliminate the development of new offshore wind facilities in the Great Lakes region by removing the investment tax credit. This would make such projects less financially attractive.
Existing wind facilities and those outside the specified inland navigable waters would not be directly affected. The change could lead to increased focus on other renewable energy sources or locations for wind energy projects.
The bill could also lead to debates about the balance between renewable energy development and environmental protection in sensitive ecosystems.
Potential Benefits
- Environmental Protection: Could protect the Great Lakes from potential negative environmental impacts associated with wind turbine construction and operation.
- Economic Benefits for Existing Industries: May benefit existing industries that rely on the Great Lakes, such as tourism and fishing, by preserving the aesthetic and ecological integrity of the lakes.
- Focus on Alternative Renewable Energy: Could encourage investment in other forms of renewable energy that may be more suitable for the Great Lakes region.
- Reduced Visual Impact: Preserves the natural aesthetics of the Great Lakes by preventing the construction of wind turbines.
- Protection of Ecosystems: Could help protect the unique ecosystems of the Great Lakes from potential harm caused by wind turbine development.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Renewable Energy Development: Could slow down the development of renewable energy sources in the Great Lakes region, hindering efforts to combat climate change.
- Economic Disincentive: Removes a financial incentive for companies to invest in wind energy projects in the Great Lakes, potentially leading to job losses in the renewable energy sector.
- Missed Opportunity for Energy Independence: Could reduce the region's ability to generate its own clean energy, making it more reliant on external sources.
- Potential for Increased Fossil Fuel Use: If renewable energy development is hindered, there may be a greater reliance on fossil fuels to meet energy demands.
- Limited Scope: Only affects offshore wind facilities in inland navigable waters, specifically the Great Lakes, and does not address other potential environmental concerns.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, specifically Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce among the several states. This includes the regulation of navigable waters.
However, the bill's impact on interstate commerce and energy policy could raise questions about the balance of power between the federal government and the states. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific individual rights or freedoms protected by the Bill of Rights.
Whether the bill promotes the "general Welfare" as stated in the Preamble is debatable and depends on differing views regarding environmental protection versus energy development.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).