Consumers
earn credits for energy-efficiency
improvements
The first
comprehensive energy bill
in more than a decade offers
consumers many incentives
for improving the energy
efficiency of their homes
and businesses. The U.S.
Department of Energy provided
the following list of credits
available in 2006 through
the new energy legislation:
- Consumers
can receive a credit of up
to 30 percent of the cost
(up to $2,000) for installing
solar-powered hot water systems
used exclusively for other
purposes than heating swimming
pools and hot tubs.
- Tax credits
are available for up to $500
on the amount spent to upgrade
thermostats, caulking leaks
or stopping energy waste.
- Up to $200
credit is available for homeowners
who install new exterior
windows.
- Consumers
can receive up to $300 credit
for purchases of highly efficient
air conditioners, heat pumps
or water heaters.
- Up to $150
is available for installation
of a highly efficient furnace
or boiler.
- A 10-percent
investment tax credit is
available for expenses to
improve a home, including
credits for the purchase
of advanced main air circulating
fans, natural gas, propane
or oil furnaces or hot water
boilers and other qualified
energy-efficient equipment.
More information
on conserving energy at home
and at work can be found at Partnerships
for Home Energy Efficiency and Energy
Star.
