Pacific Sunset (photo by Lisa Welbourn)

Making an eco-friendly investment in your home can save money on taxes, reduce utility bills over the long term, and increase the value of your home. Those are the benefits to the homeowner, but since that investment also makes for a cleaner, safer and more secure environment for every citizen, we wanted to provide some information for interested homeowners.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy web site:

Consumers who install solar electric systems can receive a 30% tax credit for systems placed in service from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2016; the previous tax credit cap of $2,000 no longer applies. In addition, consumers who install small wind systems can receive a tax credit up to $4,000. Geothermal heat pumps also qualify for tax credits up to $2,000.

For more detail on tax incentives on federal tax incentives go to: U.S. Department of Energy Tax Breaks

The California Solar Energy Industries Association is a non-profit business association supporting the widespread adoption of solar thermal and photovoltaic systems by educating consumers and supporting solar legislation.

The State of California has put in place a range of financial incentives that substantially reduce the costs of solar energy systems. For CAL SEIA's info on the incentives click here: California Energy Rebates