OC Register 2.15.09

Federal Recovery Package - Energy

* Homeowners looking to save energy, makers of solar panels and wind turbines, and companies hoping to bring the electric grid into the computer age all stand to reap major benefits. The package has more than 42 billion in energy related investments, such as tax credits to homeowners, loan guarantees for renewable energy projects and direct government grants for makers of wind turbines and next-generation batteries.

* There’s a 30 percent tax credit of up to $1,500 for the purchase of highly efficient residential air conditioners, heat pumps or furnaces. The credit also can be used for the replacement of leaky windows or the addition of insulation to the attic.

* About $300 million goes to rebates to get people to buy efficient appliances.