Gov. Brownback touts gains in wind energy

? Gov. Sam Brownback and several wind energy officials are touting efforts in Kansas to develop the power source and asking that a federal tax credit for the industry not be allowed to expire.

At a news conference Wednesday, the Republican governor said Kansas is among the national leaders in wind energy production, with several new wind farms scheduled for completion this year.

But there’s concern that Congress won’t extend a tax credit that makes it worthwhile for wind developers to invest in new turbines. One industry official said Wednesday that without the tax credit, construction of wind equipment at a plant in Hutchinson could end next year.

Brownback said that while the tax credit shouldn’t be permanent, it’s important to provide support as the renewable markets grow.