Support is growing for legislation aimed at promoting U.S. clean energy technology competitiveness. A hearing is expected to be set soon for SB 1586 by Senators Tom Udall (D-NM) and Mark Prior (D-AK) that creates a fund to reduce alternative energy manufacturing production costs and increase investments to promote this sector’s manufacturing and exports. The Clean Energy Technology and Manufacturing Assistance Act mirrors legislation introduced last year by Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA), which passed the House. “We are hopeful that because of the momentum the legislation has gained, it will be brought up soon, either on its own or as part of a larger jobs package,” said Alana Juteau, Matsui’s spokesperson. Matsui’s measure is part of the “Make it in America” agenda being pushed by House Democrats. It was also included in leader Nancy Pelosi’s recommendations to the Super Committee as a job creation initiative they could have included in a final package. “The clean energy sector has the potential to put Americans to work, improve our national security, and address our environmental impact,” Matsui stated this week. Last January, she introduced the legislation to “help American companies increase their demand and create new, good jobs in communities like Sacramento.” The measure directs the International Trade Administration to help clean tech firms navigate foreign export markets. It also directs the ITA to develop and implement a national clean energy technology export strategy.