10 ways to nab clean energy incentives

Getting efficient lost a little of its incentive luster this year, but consumers may still save money and enterprising homeowners will still be able to reap tax breaks.

The tax package signed recently by President Obama sets aside energy efficiency incentives for everything from washing machines to lighting in commercial buildings. While some declined or saw increased standards, many soldiered on.

Here's a look at what's available to appliance manufacturers (and indirectly to consumers):

• Dishwashers that meet energy efficiency and water saving standards can receive tax incentives of between $25 and $75.
• Washing machines that meet energy efficiency and water saving standards can receive tax incentives of up to $225.
• Refrigerators that use 30 percent to 35 percent less energy than federal standards can receive tax incentives of up to $200.

Home owners interested in upgrades also can see breaks should they be willing to apply.

• Those who purchase air conditioning or heat pump units that meet the highest efficiency standards can receive an incentive of 30 percent of the cost of installation, up to $300. In most cases, that requires purchase of a SEER 16 air conditioner. Those cost more than units of a lesser rating, which are still efficient.
• Those who purchase gas, electric or oil water heaters that rate a thermal efficiency of at least 90 percent can receive an incentive of up to $300.
• Those who purchase gas and oil furnaces and boilers that meet energy efficiency standards can receive an incentive of up to $150.
• Those who purchase biomass, or pellet, stoves that rate a thermal efficiency of at least 75 percent can receive an incentive of up to $300.
• Those who make energy efficiency improvements to their homes adding insulation, sealing ducts and adding cool roofs that meet specifications can receive incentives of up to 30 percent the cost of installation, including materials and labor.
• Those who add doors and windows that meet Energy Star ratings can receive incentives of up to $200.

New homes that save 50 percent more energy than existing federal standards can receive incentives of up to $2,000. Commercial buildings that have undergone upgrades to the entire structure and save 50 percent on energy costs can receive an incentive of up to $1.80 per square foot. Commercial lighting and air conditioning and heating upgrades can receive smaller incentives.

More information can be found at the Tax Incentives Assistance Project web site or a fact sheet provided by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.