Inventing in alternative sources of energy for our homes helps saving money. It is a fact. Yet, these rare practises still needs to be registered to create public consciousness. Today I read an article at Parkersburg News and Sentinel on the US tax relief to encourage solar energy:

According to the news, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 extends, expands, and simplifies federal income tax credits for homeowners who make energy efficiency home improvements. The law extends consumer tax benefits through 2010; triples the total available tax credit from $500 to $1,500, and increases the tax credit to 30 percent of the cost of each qualified energy efficiency improvement. It also removes the cap on geothermal heat pumps and solar water heaters through 2016.

Consumers who purchase and install specific products, such as energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs, and heating and cooling equipment in existing homes can receive a tax credit for 30 percent of the cost, up to $1,500, for improvements placed in service starting Jan. 1, 2009, through Dec. 31, 2010.

Consumers who install solar energy systems (including solar water heating and solar electric systems), small wind systems, geothermal heat pumps, and residential fuel cell and microturbine systems can receive a 30 percent tax credit for systems placed in service before Dec. 31, 2016.

If a person is building a new home, according to the Department of Energy, they can qualify for the tax credit for geothermal heat pumps, photovoltaics, solar water heaters, small wind energy systems and fuel cells.

More information is available on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act including specific projects and equipment it covers, go to the Alliance for Energy’s Web site at: ase.org/.