There is a wide range of predictions on the near- and long-term future of the nation's energy supply. Relatively few experts, though, believe so-called green energy is ready to handle the bulk of our needs in the foreseeable future.

But that doesn't mean it's not important. Long term, the supply of fossil fuels is limited, and there will need to be a bridge to whatever technology can replace them, whether that's fuel cells or something as yet unknown. So green fuels, like solar and wind power, have a vital role to play.

Keeping those industries healthy also means keeping jobs, at a time the economy can't afford to keep losing them. So it's important that Congress support the extension of the Production Tax Credits, a program that has allowed for growth in the U.S. wind power industry. The tax credits are set to expire at the end of the year.

At the moment, it appears to be politics standing in the way of an extension.

A number of U.S. companies stand to benefit from the tax credits' continuation, including Fairfield's General Electric Co. But the benefits go beyond one corporation. The expansion of green energy solutions is important for the nation's future.

Businesses often complain about a lack of certainty in matters of policy, and this is an example where they have a point. It would be much easier to plan for future employment knowing the tax credits would continue to be in place. As it is, jobs are on the line.

U.S. Rep. Jim Himes and Sen. Richard Blumenthal support the extension. It's time for the rest of Congress to join them.