IRA energy tax credits are boosting Boise’s economy — and our energy security

As a business owner in Boise, I value pragmatic solutions that grow our economy, create jobs and strengthen America’s energy independence. The Inflation Reduction Act’s energy tax credits are proving to be a smart investment in America’s future — especially for Idaho-based businesses like mine.

The benefits transcend partisan politics, as evidenced by recent news that more than a dozen House Republicans urged Speaker Mike Johnson not to repeal the Inflation Reduction Act’s clean energy tax credits, arguing they’ve already spurred innovation, job creation, and investment in energy infrastructure across the nation. According to a CNN report from June, the vast majority of the $346-billion-worth of announced investments – nearly 78% – went to Republican congressional districts. We saw some of that land in the Gem State, like with large solar projects announced by Idaho Power.

Clean energy benefits Idaho businesses and families

Idaho has long championed an “all-of-the-above” when it comes to energy development, leveraging everything from hydropower to nuclear and geothermal energy. The Inflation Reduction Act’s tax credits incentivize investments in these resources, reducing our dependence on foreign energy and keeping energy dollars closer to home.

Boise businesses are benefiting directly from these policies. Solar companies are hiring, contractors are busy installing energy-efficient systems and local manufacturers are producing components for clean energy technologies. These aren’t hypothetical benefits — they’re real jobs and real dollars flowing into our community.

By prioritizing domestic energy production, these tax credits are also helping protect local families and businesses from volatile energy prices. We’ve all felt the pinch at the pump or seen high utility bills eat into our budgets. Increasing local energy production provides much-needed stability and ensures we’re not beholden to unpredictable global markets.

In Boise, new clean energy projects require electricians, engineers, construction workers and logistics experts. These are good-paying jobs spanning skill and education levels that help families thrive and contribute to our economy.

Refining, not repealing, energy policies that work

With changes in Washington, I hope that leaders continue to pay attention to the millions of dollars that have been spent based on the assumption that the Inflation Reduction Act tax incentives will remain in place. Repealing them would pull the rug out from under American companies, sending a chilling message to future investors.

Most Boiseans agree that tax credits make sense when they reward innovation, encourage private-sector investment and strengthen our economy. It’s worth noting that Inflation Reduction Act tax credits help reduce large utility projects, which ultimately keep energy rates low. Clean energy will continue to shape our economy in Idaho and globally – it’s bigger than any one party. In the face of so much that divides us, the focus on jobs, reduced costs and ensuring a secure energy future for our nation should be a reminder that we can still find common ground as we chart our state’s legacy.

The Inflation Reduction Act isn’t perfect, but its energy tax credits are undeniably benefiting Boise and other communities across America. Let’s focus on refining policies that work while continuing to fight for energy independence, economic growth and the values that make our state strong.