WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives this morning approved an amendment by Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-9) to increase research and development of solar power by $10 million. The Kaptur Amendment drew bipartisan support and passed by a vote of 212-210.

The Kaptur Amendment would transfer funds from administrative expenses at the U.S. Department of Energy to solar research and development.

During debate on her amendment, Congresswoman Kaptur last evening referred to solar energy as a growth industry, creating jobs and reducing America’s dependence on imported petroleum.

“While the U.S. economy is anticipated to increase jobs by just two percent in the next year, in the solar industry that number is 26 percent,” Kaptur said. “Solar is a sector that is growing jobs in our country … As costs go down and production capacity grows, solar energy becomes a viable energy alternative to imported energy sources.

“It is precisely because of our investments in this fledgling, cutting-edge industry that is high tech that such successes are possible. We cannot allow America to be complacent. Right now we are in competition to be the leader in this sector.”

Citing competition from China in the solar sector, Kaptur said the United States “must redouble our efforts, continue our investment in research and bring this market to scale in America.”

She said her amendment would “promote American industry and energy independence.”