worldwaterandmore

IN recent years, wind and solar powerhave been among the fastest-growing sources of energy in the country. But questions loom over their future: Will federal incentives that are important to their growth continue? And what happens if those incentives expires?

For wind power, the situation is especially precarious, energy specialists say. The federal production tax credit, which has provided incentives for wind farm operators to produce power since 1992, expires at the end of 2012. Congress has extended it in the past, most recently in 2009 as part of the federal stimulus package. But this time, some in the industry fear that the mood for limited government in Washington could imperil an extension.

SUNNY DAYS A boy playing near SunRun solar panels on his home in Mill Valley, Calif. SunRun benefits from federal grants, expiring soon.