Uncle Sam and your local gas and electric utilities offer financial incentives to save energy. The federal government offers a tax credit equal to 30% of the cost to install geothermal heat pumps, small wind turbines and solar energy systems that are put in use by December 31, 2016 (visit www.energystar.gov).
Gas and electric utilities and state energy agencies in all 50 states offer a variety of rebates and other incentives to homeowners. For example, customers of Puget Sound Energy, in Washington, can earn up to $1,900 in rebates for insulating and weather-stripping their homes. Xcel Energy customers in Minnesota can earn up to $475 when they install a highly efficient air conditioner or furnace. In Maryland, Pepco provides in-store discounts on Energy Star–qualified compact fluorescent and LED bulbs at participating retailers.
To find rebates and incentives where you live, use the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency at www.dsireusa.org and search by zip code.
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