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The U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Small Business today heard testimony from Tim Ehmann, an electrical contractor specializing in solar installation and member of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), on the importance of including energy-efficient building projects in proposed economic stimulus legislation.

Ehmann spoke on NECA's behalf at the committee's hearing on "The State of the Small Business Economy and Identifying Policies to Promote an Economic Recovery." His testimony focused on two elements that NECA and NECA members believe should be included in upcoming economic stimulus legislation: incentives for renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind; and specific incentives that will help provide opportunities for America's small businesses.

"Much of President-elect Obama's $1 trillion stimulus plan emphasizes significant investment in transportation and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and dams," said Lake Coulson, NECA's executive director, government affairs. "While these traditional building projects will help spur economic growth and create jobs, they overlook the need to improve our schools, hospitals, and public facilities by investing in green energy construction."

NECA adopted an energy independence policy in October 2008 that encourages investment in renewable and alternative energy product, modernizing and securing the national electric grid, and improving the energy efficiency of all buildings.

At the hearing, Ehmann answered the committee's questions about the need for investment in energy-efficient buildings, including schools and government facilities; renewable energy technologies; and broadband expansion. He also spoke on the urgent need to repeal the three percent withholding tax in order to get new construction projects moving.