Oregon Public Broadcasting

Bend and Central Oregon boast of 300 days of sun per year. That number is unconfirmed, but the sunny weather has led to the growth of a burgeoning solar industry.

Now several of the region's biggest solar companies are struggling -- and they blame the federal government. Ethan Lindsey reports that one of the region's solar pioneers has laid off some of its workers.

In May, Barack Obama stopped by to praise Bend-based PV Powered.

But now, chief executive Gregg Patterson says he had to lay off some of his company's 60 employees - fewer than 10 workers. 

Patterson says a program that helped people switch to solar is in jeopardy.

The investment tax credit is set to expire in December.

Gregg Patterson: “I find it horribly ironic and paradoxical that at the same time we are struggling with energy independence, that the Congress and the current Administration can't solve this issue.”

Mike Hewitt's company, E2Powered, installs solar equipment.

He says the looming deadline has actually helped his sales - as people try to get in under the wire.

But Hewitt worries about the long-term.

The solar industry estimates it could lose $19 billion if it does expire.

Congress could pass the credit next month - but may wait until a new Administration takes over.