Wisconsin Ag Connection - Suder & Zien Introducing Rural Energy Zone

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Suder & Zien Introducing Rural Energy Zone
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 11/03/2006

State Representative Scott Suder and Senator Dave Zien say they are teaming up to sponsor legislation next year which will promote the production and use of alternative energy sources throughout rural Wisconsin. The two northern Wisconsin Republicans say their bill will create three 'Rural Energy Zones' which will use tax credits to promote research, development, production and use of alternative energy fuels, such as bio-diesel, ethanol, solar, wind and hybrid fuels.

Zien pointed to the ACE Ethanol plant in Stanley as a success story for alternative fuel production and says Wisconsin should strive to become the leader in Midwest alternative fuel production.

"The Stanley ethanol plant produces 45 million gallons of ethanol each year which has raised corn prices for farmers, created good paying jobs for the area and will continue to help reduce our dependence on foreign oil," Zien stated. "Our Rural Energy Zone initiative will encourage investment in our rural areas and promote alternative fuel development and usage. This initiative is an investment in Wisconsin's economic future."

The Suder-Zien Rural Energy Production Act will create three rural energy zones in Wisconsin and will provide $5 Million in tax credits for each zone. Various tax credits will be provided to businesses involved in research, development or production of alternative fuels. Suder and Zien say their legislation will encourage public-private partnerships and will include tax credits for small businesses including LLC's, cooperatives, municipalities, or groups of individuals such as farmers who work together to create alternative fuels.

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