Solar industry growth bodes well for homeowners and the global community at large. It creates new jobs, reduces the consumption of fossil fuels, and relies on clean solar energy, a renewable resource that will never be lacking. Solar rebates help homeowners overcome financial barriers to installing and using solar-powered devices so that they can begin to reap the benefits for themselves and others.
The House of Representatives recently approved two bills, H.R. 2776 and H.R. 3221, that extend the 30 percent solar energy investment tax credit for businesses through 2016 as well as improve the tax credits for homeowners. Given these incentives, solar industry reps believe the market for solar is poised for more widespread accessibility and growth.
To get in on federal incentives promoting renewable, efficient energy, check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE). The website is searchable by state for a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility, and federal incentives, including deductions, exemptions, credits, loans, and grants for qualified solar projects.
The government also offers energy efficiency tax credits. The IRS form for requesting this home improvement tax credit is IRS Form 5695. Also, organizations such as the Solar Energy Industries Association give information on federal solar tax credits on their websites. Let’s not forget another resource: your local utility company. PG & E, for example, offers residential rebates for installing energy efficient products.
Keep in mind that solar rebates and incentives will vary depending on which state you live in. In California, residents can find rebates by zip code using Flex Your Power, a partnership of California’s utilities, residents, businesses, institutions, government agencies and nonprofit organizations working to save energy. Californians can also look up solar incentives via the California Solar Initiative.
Chances are, your city and state will have a set of available resources encouraging energy efficiency. Start with the city for a list of companies and organizations by trade.
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