Posts Tagged ‘federal’

Energy Efficient Tax Credits For 2011 and 2012

March 20, 2012

It’s that time of year again, and although we have written about Energy Efficiency tax credits for 2011 before, if you had work done this past year, it might be time to review.  You can also go to our learning center for solutions to common problems we fix in homes just like yours, as well as links to our franchise locations; they can provide details about incentives available in their area.

Many of the federal tax credits ended in 2011, but not all of them.  What will continue for 2012, are credits for some renewable energy systems.  Solar water heating and photovoltaic systems, small wind systems, and geothermal heat pumps, are all eligible measures through 2016.  If you are thinking of alternatives, consider our interactive online home to get a better sense of whether or not these types of improvements are really what you need this year.

Alternative energy systems can be expensive, and it often makes the most sense to install them in homes that are very efficient from the start.  You might be surprised by what some simple measures can save you money.  Tax credit or not, insulation, air sealing and efficient heating and hot water systems can pay for themselves in short order.  Simple measures that cost less and save you more!

Thanks,

Jason

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Posted in Energy / Efficiency / Renewables, Energy Geeks / Energy Policy, GreenHomes America, Rebates and Incentives, Solar / Renewables | 3 Comments »

Summary of 2011 Home Energy Improvement Tax Credit Now Available

January 5, 2011

As noted earlier, the federal energy efficiency tax credit has been extended through 2011, but the federal government has significantly changed the credit limits and eligibility requirements.  And we’ve been getting a lot of questions about this.  So let’s try to clarify things.  Here’s how it looks in 2011.

For measures installed between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2011, the credit is generally 10% of costs on qualifying energy efficiency improvement measures, up to a maximum of $500.  However, special limits have been put on certain qualifying equipment and measures.  For example:

  • 10% up to $500 for insulation, roofs, and doors
  • High efficiency furnaces and boilers – $150
  • Air-Conditioners and  heat pumps – $300
  • Main air circulating fans – $50
  • ENERGY STAR Windows – 10% capped at $200
  • Energy efficient water heaters – $300

The $500 cap will apply to anyone who received the credit from Jan. 1, 2005 to present. Thus, if you’ve claimAsk your GreenHomes Advisor for information of the 2011 Tax Creditsed a cumulative credit of $500 or more since Jan. 1, 2005, you won’t be eligible for the 2011 extension.  If you’ve claimed less than $500 cumulatively, you are eligible for the difference with qualifying measures.  Check out our more complete summary of the 2011 credits and FAQ for further details.

Certain renewable energy tax credits for solar PV, solar hot water, and geothermal, for example, remain in place at 30% of cost, with no cap.

[Note: 2009-2010 tax filers, the 2010 tax credit information is still available—don’t forget to claim any credits you’re eligible for when you file your 2010 tax return.]

Thanks,
Mike

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Posted in Energy Geeks / Energy Policy, Rebates and Incentives | 4 Comments »

Home Energy Upgrade Tax Credits Chopped in 2011.

December 21, 2010

[Editor's update, Jan. 4, 2011:  A comprehensive summary of the 2011 energy tax credit with a table listing specifications and dollar amounts for various improvements is now available.]

Included in the tax legislation that Congress recently passed and the President signed is a one-year extension of the federal tax credit for energy improvements to homes.  Unfortunately, it’s significantly less attractive than the 2010 tax credit.  In 2011, there will be an overall cap of $500, with smaller caps for particular items.  For example, qualifying furnaces would only garner a $150 credit.   The WSJ’s Market Watch gives a nice high level view.  The 2011 credit is in sharp contrast to the $1,500 credit you could have received in 2010.  There’s really only one week left to try to take advantage of the much better credit.  If you think you’ll need a new furnace (for example) over the next couple of years, it may be worth accelerating the change–if you can still squeeze it in.

We’ll post a comprehensive view of the details for 2011 on our website in coming weeks, much like information on the current credit available in 2010.

There are still very generous state, local, and/or utility incentives for many of the customers we serve.  Give us a call or visit our website to see how we can help.

Thanks,
Mike

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Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a Comment »

Last Call for $1,500 home efficiency tax credits.

December 11, 2010

The final two weeks:  The $1,500 federal energy efficiency tax credits expire on December 31st 2010.  Need a new furnace?   Insulation?  This credit is likely to disappear, and to be eligible, qualifying equipent has to be installed by December 31, 2010.  The tax credits offer up to 30%/$1,500 back on qualifying measures.   That can be 1/3 off the price of a hgih-efficiency furnace with an efficient motor to save you not just gas, but electricity.   You’re not likely to find a better time to get a new furnace in particular, so now is the time to act to avoid missing this opportunity.

Thanks,
Mike

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Posted in Energy / Efficiency / Renewables, Rebates and Incentives | Leave a Comment »

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