There's big money to be saved here. The obvious incentive is that appliances that are more energy efficient will use less energy and cost less to run. However, there are some great opportunities out there. Between now and the end of 2010 is the time to do any appliance or windows upgrades. If you need to replace an appliance or have home improvement, pay attention to energy star ratings. Often any additional cost will payoff with less energy cost and there are typically tax rebates (washers, windows, furnace). In fact, for 2009 & 2010 there is one time federal $1500 tax credit for items like windows and furnaces. In Oregon , we are very lucky to also have state and energy trust that also provide incentives. Below are links for the services they provide. Actually, a friend of mine just had a net expense for a 95% efficiency furnace a month ago for what it cost me to install an 80% efficiency furnace in 2008 after all the tax incentives and rebates he got.
Note: Most are tax credits, not deductions which have a much bigger impact.
o Federal: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits
o Oregon State : http://www.oregon.gov/ENERGY/CONS/RES/RETC.shtml
o Oregon Energy Trust: http://www.energytrust.org/residential/index.html
Portland General Electric is also offering $150 off of a new electric water heater for those of you living in their district.
NW Natural is offering incentives to install a new air conditioner along with a new energy efficient furnace. Total incentives when combined with the Federal and Oregon Energy Trust money is up to $2100.
I also discussed some incentives from local water companies for improvements that will help you reduce water usage in a previous blog.
If you have installed any new appliances or windows in 2009 or plan to you should definitely check out these websites.
Good luck!
Jason
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