Exchange Traded Funds for Alternative Energy

J. Alex Tarquinio of the New York Times wrote a great article Funds, Too, Are Mining New Energy Sources. ETFs are economical to buy and and maintain over the years, making them especially attractive for the typical buy and hold investor. ETFs are index funds that trade just like stocks on major stock exchanges.

Energy Efficient Tax Credit for your Home

If you are tired of giving Uncle Sam your money each year and you’re interested in greenovating your home with energy saving technology. Here are some ways you can take advantage of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008.

All Energy Star labeled windows and skylights - 10% of cost, up to $200.

Exterior doors - 10% of cost, up to $500.

Energy Star Qualified Metal Roofs - 10% of cost, up to $500.

Insulation that meets 2000 IECC & Amendments - 10% of cost, up to $500.

An advanced main air circulating fan - $50.

All Energy Star labeled Geo-thermal Heat Pumps - 30% of cost, up to $2000.

Solar Equipment for Water Heating Systems or Photovoltaic Cells that provide electricity - 30% of cost, up to $2000.

Here is a summary of the tax credits and IRS forms visit Energy Star .

To encourage people to buy energy efficient products, ENERGY STAR partners occasionally sponsor special offers, such as sales tax exemptions or credits, or rebates on qualified products. So if you are looking to update some appliances check out Special Offers and Rebates from Energy Star Partners. Be sure to scroll down and click on Check All so you don’t miss anything.

If you would like to save energy take the Energy Star Pledge  and help fight Global Warming.

 

Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM)

Do you know about the Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM)? Although EEMs have been available in some states since 1980, EEMs have been little understood or marketed. With EEMs, borrowers do not need to get a separate, costly loan for energy improvements when buying an existing home or new home that is already energy efficient such as an ENERGY STAR qualified home. This program helps achieve national energy-efficiency goals (reduce pollution) and provide better housing for people who might not otherwise be able to afford it. Ask your mortgage banker if he/she offers this program?

Louisville Ky Green Middle School

I was pleased to read in Courier Journal that the new John L. Ramsey Middle School is green. The school has solar panels to heat water and run some of the lights. There are also motion sensors that will detect when rooms aren’t occupied, turning lights off and scaling back heating and air usage. A 40 foot windmill will soon be contructed to help generate energy. The school is located off I-265, between Chenoweth and Billtown Roads.