Green Incentives Put Cash Back in Your Wallet

A couple of weeks back, I did a series of articles about ways to lessen your impact on the environment in three stages – easy, inexpensive things you can do right now, changes you might consider if you are remodeling or upgrading and ways to build green from the ground up. This week, I’ve pulled out some of the cash incentives offered by the federal and state government and by utility companies that can cut your costs if you decide to green your home or property.

 

-          Federal Incentives

There are two tax credits available to homeowners who make improvements that make their homes less dependent on conventional energy sources – one for those who make almost any type of energy improvements and one specifically for those who add solar and alternative energy improvements to their homes. In addition, any rebates that you get from the state or your utility companies are excluded from your taxed income.

 

-          State Rebates and Incentives

Each state offers some sort of rebate or incentive for residents who make energy efficient improvements or conversions to their homes. In Florida, you can get a rebate for installing solar water heaters, solar pool heaters and photovoltaic systems in your home before 2010. In addition, you can get a tax credit for many energy efficient home improvements that lessen your dependence on traditional energy sources.

 

-          Utility Company Rebates

Most utility companies offer rebate or incentive programs to their residential and corporate customers. In the Tampa area, People’s Gas offers rebates of up to $650 for converting to more efficient gas appliances. Tampa Electric offers three separate programs that will save you money when you make home improvements that increase the energy efficiency of your home. These include rebates on electric water heaters, and incentives for installing ceiling insulation and repairing ductwork to improve energy efficiency.

 

Check with your county for any special programs as well, since many counties are considering incentives of their own. The important thing to keep in mind is that you don’t have to do it alone. There are many sources of financial assistance if you’re planning to go green.

Read more on Florida and Tampa Energy Incentives.

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