Small businesses are at the forefront of technological innovations in the areas of energy and environment. In 2011, the Department of Energy awarded $1.3 billion in contracts with small businesses, including $228 million in WOSB contracts.

 1) Adopt a Comprehensive Energy Plan

The federal government should develop a comprehensive energy plan, one that incorporates the use and deployment of domestic energy and alternative energy sources. At the same time, the government should balance the need for smart energy regulations without compromising small businesses' ability to compete.

2) Continue to Provide Research & Development Incentives

Small businesses are on the cutting edge of developing new energy technologies. The federal government should continue to provide adequate funding and incentives for small businesses to continue to develop new technologies through grants and public/private sector investments such as reforming the research and development tax credits for startups. WIPP supports the permanent extension of small business tax credits in the federal debt deal passed at the end of 2012.