Green Planet and Me

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Although going green is a noble goal worthy in its own right, and choosing this lifestyle generally helps people save money, these days it is even more worthwhile than before. Thanks to president Obama’s Stimulus Bill, going green can actually help you save a lot more money than before. It’s a win-win scenario: by going green and saving money on energy, you will be getting even more money though tax-cuts. All this while helping to save our environment – sounds like a pretty good deal to us!

 
Here is a summary of things you can do to qualify for getting this money:

1. Install energy-efficient doors, windows, insulation or roof and get 10% off or $500 tax credit.
   
    

2. Install skylights or eco-friendly exterior doors and get 10% or $200 back.
   
    

3. Install central air conditioner units, biomass stoves or energy efficient heaters and get 30% off or up to $1500 tax credit. (Get a free residential solar evaluation)
   
    

4. Buy a hybrid car and get up to $3400 refund, based on the amount of gas saved and weight of the car.
   
    

5. Install a solar-power system or a wind turbine to power your household appliances and get 30% off tax credit.
   
    

6. Install gas, propane or oil furnace or hot-water boiler, and get $150 tax credit.
   
    

7. Use mass transit instead of your own car, and get up to $230 pre-tax money per month.

 
Before making your new energy-saving home improvements make sure they are eligible for the tax cuts or credits. Also make sure you check your specific state’s tax break, as each state laws can be slightly different. And finally, you can always arrange an audit with a specialized consultant, many times also offered by the utilities department free of charge.