MIAMISBURG — A multibillion-dollar revolving loan fund could bring more than 50,000 jobs to Ohio and create a renewable energy economy, advocates say.

But Congress first has to pass a climate and energy bill — a thorny proposition loaded with likely partisan clashes.

Among those endorsing the legislation is Steve Melink, owner of Melink Corp. of Milford. His 65-employee company is the general contractor for Dayton Power & Light’s new solar power array at the Mound Advanced Technology Center.

Besides constructing arrays, Melink Corp. also works with major companies nationwide in ventilation systems. “It will not only be good for our economy, but our national security and environment,” Melink said. He called for an end to “dithering in Congress” as competition in the renewable energy industry heats up from abroad.

What’s been dubbed the “Investments for Manufacturing Progress and Clean Technology Act,” or IMPACT, would be a $30 billion revolving loan fund. It was incorporated in legislation now a part of the energy bill passed by the U.S. House. In May, Policy Matters Ohio estimated IMPACT could create between 41,063 and 52,214 new jobs in Ohio during 10 years.

Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, the act’s author, said the fund would provide access to credit for small- and medium-sized manufacturers to retool for the renewable energy industry and position Ohio as the “Silicon Valley” of the shift.

The National Republican Committee last week attacked Brown’s support of federal stimulus, including energy projects. “Sherrod Brown should explain why he supports the Obama administration’s out-of-control tax and spend policies when they have resulted in 10.7 percent unemployment in Ohio and a skyrocketing national debt,” said spokesman Ryan Tronovitch.

Following a 90-minute meeting between President Obama and senators on June 29, the White House said Obama wants polluters to pay a large share of the cost for a new energy economy.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7407 or sbennish@DaytonDailyNews.com.