To help mitigate the cost burden for taking energy efficient measures, federal and state governments has created financial programs and opportunities using tax and ratepayer dollars that will help you to invest in creating an energy efficient and financially viable lifestyle.
HAWAII ENERGY PROGRAM
Hawaii Energy is a ratepayer-funded conservation and efficiency program administered by SAIC under contract with the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission serving the islands of Hawaii, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and Oahu. Hawaii Energy does not serve the island of Kauai due to its decoupling from the Hawaiian Electric Company. Kauai is administered by the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative.
Utilizing ratepayer funds, Hawaii Energy offers cash rebates and financial incentives to residents and businesses to help offset the cost of installing energy efficient equipment. In addition to rebates, the program conducts education and training to residents, businesses and trade allies (contractors) to encourage the adoption of energy conservation behaviors and efficiency measures. The program plays an important role in helping the state achieve the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative (HCEI) goal of reducing total electric energy usage by 4.3 billion kWh (or 30%) by 2030.
DSIRE U.S.A.
The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) website is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility and federal incentives and policies that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. The program is funded through the US Department of Energy, and is administered by the North Carolina Solar Center and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council.
ENEGY STAR REBATES
AND TAX CREDITS
On February 17th, 2009, President Barack Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, extending and modifying federal tax credits for energy efficient appliances initially established in the Energy Policy Act of 2005.
On June 17th, 2010, President Barack Obama then signed into law the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010, allowing homeowners the opportunity to claim further tax credits for purchasing energy efficient appliances.
ENERGY STAR lists all qualifications on its website. The EPA also recommends consulting with tax professionals with specific questions.