The time to go green on energy is now
Here is the start of today's column. I'll have more on the blog later on details I didn't have room for in the column, and answers to reader questions.
Two-thirds of Americans think the environment is getting worse, but most haven't made major changes to help the air, soil and water, according to recent Gallup polls.If you're one of the procrastinators, your number of excuses just got smaller. Thanks to the recently passed federal stimulus bill, Maryland energy grants and a maturation of the alternative energy industry, the incentives to go green in big ways and small are higher than they've ever been.
Wind-generated electricity is the cheapest in history. Government and utilities will pay for huge portions of insulation upgrades, efficient appliances and solar installations. And anybody can shave $100 off his or her electric bill this summer by letting Baltimore Gas & Electric briefly shut off their air conditioning on the hottest days.
Comments
Thank you so much for putting all of this valuable information in an easy to understand format.
Posted by: NotableM | April 8, 2009 7:20 PM
Do you know if solar based lawn lighting systems and other small solar items (solar flashlights, solar lamps, solar radio, etc.) are eligible for the new solar based tax credits?
Posted by: Bolt | April 8, 2009 11:41 PM
Bolt: Check with the manufacturer. Or maybe they know at Home Depot. I do not. J.
Posted by: Jay | April 9, 2009 9:37 AM
Solar based lawn lighting systems and CFL's are not part of the Federal Tax Credits.
PV, Geo Thermal, Energy Efficient (EE) Windows, EE Hot Water Heaters and Insulation all are. Take advantage if you can.
Also take advantage of the cheap CFL's at Home Depot. Part of your BGE bill each month goes to subsidize the BGE CFL program.
Posted by: Michael A. | April 9, 2009 12:00 PM