Last week, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) joined more than 220 other groups in signing a letter to Congress that endorses a national renewable portfolio standard (RPS) as a way to ensure the investment tens of billions of dollars in the industry and the creation of thousands of jobs.

A total of 226 companies and organizations have signed the letter, which urges Congress to adopt a national RPS this year.  Legislation introduced in both the House and Senate would require all states to generate at least 25% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2025.

“With the strong focus on the economy in Washington right now, it’s important for Congress to recognize the importance of the RES to our economic recovery,” said Denise Bode, CEO of AWEA. We have seen how using more renewable energy creates jobs — wind created 35,000 jobs last year — and several studies have shown that a national RES will lower consumer electric bills as well.  A national renewable electricity standard is one of the most important steps we can take to encourage businesses to invest in clean energy and create thousands of new jobs right here in the U.S.”

A recent public opinion survey found that 84 percent of Americans support a national RPS. Later this spring, House and Senate committees are scheduled to take up energy legislation that includes a national RPS.

Click here to read a copy of the letter.

Also looking to push the renewable energy agenda in Washington this week, T. Boone Pickens will and his Picken's Plan organization are organizing the first Virtual March on Washington. So far, the group has more than three million people signed up for its virtual petition.

The march will take place this Wednesday through Friday, during which the group will use the internet and traditional means to contact members of congress and other elected officials to ask them to consider more renewable energy legislation before the Easter recess.

For more information on the Virtual March, click here.