With high energy prices and rising concerns about global warming, energy efficiency is a hot topic in Washington, drawing support even from some conservative Republicans like Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI). So why did an extension of tax deductions for building energy efficiency measures drop out of the Senate version of the current energy bill?The tax deductions for whole-building, lighting, HVAC and building envelope energy-efficiency were part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 — widely known as EPAct. They are set to expire at the end of 2008.The deductions fell to a filibuster that eliminated a group of tax measures aimed to boost energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy. But that’s not the end of the story.I talked to a Democratic staffer on the Senate Energy Committee about the deductions. “We’re confident that they will come back,” he said. One reason for his confidence: The vote to end the filibuster fell only two votes short. “We have those two votes,” the staffer said.
The efficiency deductions could be added to future legislation. They could even return to the current energy bill. A different version is currently being considered in the House. The House and Senate versions of the energy bill will go to a conference committee, where the tax deductions could be put back in. “Stay tuned,” said the staffer.On the bright side, the Senate energy bill does contain important energy efficiency measures, including a provision to increase the fuel efficiency of cars, trucks and SUVs.One way to make sure the building-energy-efficiency deductions aren’t lost is to call or email your senators and congressional representative. Politicians who want to get re-elected pay attention to their constituents. Even if you can’t speak on behalf of your company, you can certainly voice your opinion as an individual citizen.