In anticipation of a pivotally important vote when energy legislation reaches the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives next week, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) has launched a major media campaign including television advertising targeted to encourage the support of 11 key House members for a national renewable electricity standard (RES). 

The ads will begin to air on Sunday, July 29 in key markets. An RES (also referred to as a renewable portfolio standard) is a market-based mechanism that calls for a set percentage of the nation's electricity to be produced from renewable sources, such as wind and solar. More than 20 states have enacted successful renewable electricity standards, but a national RES is needed to fully reap the benefits of renewable energy. The amendment on the House floor, to be offered by Reps. Tom Udall (D. NM) and Todd Platts (R. PA), will call for a 20 percent renewable standard to be achieved by the year 2020. AWEA's television advertisement will run in nine media markets, expressly seeking support from 11 members of Congress. The ad can be viewed on line at www.PowerOfWind.com.