While larger appliances are specified for Energy Star grants, special lightbulbs can also be used to reduce energy consumption.
Through the use of Energy Star products and features, the average home can save $600 per year and reduce its carbon footprint. The term "carbon footprint" describes the impact that each individual makes on the Earth in relation to greenhouse gases and the use of fossil fuels. Over the last several years, more and more grants and programs have been implemented in the state of Michigan to encourage energy preservation and increase global awareness. Does this Spark an idea?
Energy Star Grants for Home Improvements
Michigan taxpayers who purchase energy-efficiency appliances or make energy-efficient upgrades in their homes can qualify for a tax credit. This tax credit applies to insulation, clothes washers, windows, refrigerators, dishwashers and water heaters. Appliances or improvements must meet EPA Energy Star efficiency criteria and must be used in residential homes. Applicants must also make an income of $37,500 or less per year for single tax returns, or $75,000 or less for joint returns per tax year. Improvements and appliances must be purchased after December 31, 2008, and before January 1, 2012. Form 4764 must be completed to receive this credit. For eligible taxpayers, the tax credit will be 10 percent of the installation cost per improvement. There is a maximum credit of $75 for single tax returns and $150 for joint returns per tax year. If the credit exceeds the tax liability of the taxpayer, the money will be issued in the form of a tax refund.
Property-Assessed Clean Energy
Commercial and industrial property owners can borrow money from the PACE, or Property-Assessed Clean Energy, program. Money borrowed for energy-efficient improvements is paid back through yearly property assessments. These programs are funded through local government agencies and not all cities offer the program. Improvements eligible for the grant can involve boilers, lighting, central air units, furnaces, CHP/Cogeneration, heat pumps, duct or air sealing, windows, roofs, doors, water usage reduction measures, building insulation, heat recovery, energy management systems, building controls, caulking and weather stripping, and motor vehicle charging for electric vehicles.
Low-Income Energy Efficiency Grants
In addition to low-income energy assistance, which aids low-income families in avoiding energy cutoffs, a low-income energy-efficiency grant has been implemented. Under this grant, low-income individuals -- with income up to 250 percent of the poverty level -- may qualify for funding of energy-efficiency appliances and home improvements. Grant fund qualification can involve roof repair, energy-efficient windows or doors, energy education, replacement of furnaces, weatherization, water heaters and other energy-efficient appliances. These grants are available through five nonprofit organizations including the Salvation Army, the United Way for Southeastern Michigan, the Department of Human Services, the Newaygo County Community Services and the WARM training center.
Tags: Energy Star, been implemented, carbon footprint, Clean Energy, energy-efficiency appliances, joint returns, joint returns year
