Colo. senators renew call to extend wind tax break

Colorado’s U.S. senators are renewing their call to extend a wind-energy tax break following the announcement of more lay-offs at Vestas.

The world’s biggest maker of wind turbines said Wednesday that it will cut 7 percent of its workforce in its second round of lay-offs this year.

Sen. Mark Udall said he’s afraid more cuts will follow if Congress doesn’t extend the break, which helps offset the cost of electricity production during a wind farm’s first 10 years.

Sen. Michael Bennet said Congress’ inaction is costing the state jobs.

Vestas has previously announced some lay-offs in Colorado. On Tuesday it said it would lay off workers in Brighton. Last week it said it would cut 90 jobs at its Pueblo tower factory.

Vestas has about 1,700 employees in Colorado and 20,400 globally.