Carson Joins GSA Administrator, Local Workers to Highlight Recovery Act Project

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman André Carson today joined General Services Agency (GSA) Administrator Martha Johnson at the Major General Emmett J. Bean Federal Center to highlight a nearly $37 million investment that will create new jobs and generate savings through clean energy technology.

More than 6,000 solar panels, producing over 1.4 megawatts of electricity will be installed at the Bean Federal Center. This project will provide an opportunity for several different types of solar panels to be tested to determine the best, most effective set up for these energy-efficient systems.

Below is an excerpt of the Congressman's statement today:
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"The past two and half years have been tough on businesses, workers and families. And while times are still tough and we still have work to do - there are positives signs. Today it was announced that for the fifth consecutive month, we have seen new jobs added. The Recovery Act continues to work here in Indiana, where an estimated 64,000 jobs have been created or saved because of it.

"This project is even more rewarding because it is not just creating jobs - it's creating green jobs. Until recently, green jobs made up a small segment of the American workforce, but now employers and workers alike are realizing that using less energy and producing more efficient products is not just good for the environment-it's good for business too.

"This solar panel project at the Bean Center will not only reduce the center's dependence on non-renewable energy sources and save taxpayer money, it will also be a proving ground for emerging technologies and for solar panels operating in a Midwest climate. This shows yet another example of how our community is on the front lines in moving forward our country's green economy."