Update: Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency expanded!

The most recently passed stimulus bill has some good news for homeowners looking to increase the efficiency of their homes! The maximum mount of tax credit available for energy updates has been increased from 500$ to 1500$, and the credit rate has increased from 10% to 30%. The tax credit has also been simplified, doing away with fixed dollar amounts of credits focused on specific items. Those looking to purchase new windows can also rejoice, as the 200$ cap on window tax credits has also been removed.

Anyone who has used the Residential Tax Credits in the years before 2009 can start anew, and claim up to another 1500$ for updates made in 2009 & 2010.

For more details, please see the following page on the EPA's EnergyStar.gov website, or contact your tax professional.

Chicago Energy Consultants is a proud partner of Energy Star, and is happy to see increased governmental awareness regarding the benefits of energy efficiency!

Chicagoland Natural Gas Savings Program

If you are a People's Gas or North Shore Gas customer, now is a great time to take on some energy efficiency projects, and receive some 'free' money back!

The Citizens Utility Board, City of Chicago, Environmental Law and Policy Center, Illinois Attorney General's Office, and Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas have joined forces to administer the Chicagoland Natural Gas Savings Program

Rebates are available on the following items from now through April, or until funds are depleted:

Ceiling Insulation (cellulose/blown in or batting)	R-38	75% of total cost; up to $750
Wall Insulation (rigid/wallboard or batting)	R-11	75% of total cost, up to $750
High Efficiency Clothes Washers	ENERGY STAR rated, with Modified Energy Factor >= 1.72 and Water Factor <= 8.0	$100 per home
Storage Water Heater	ENERGY STAR rated, with Energy Factor >= 0.62	$75 per home
Tankless Water Heater	ENERGY STAR rated, with Energy Factor >= 0.82	$400 per home
Gas Condensing Water Heater	ENERGY STAR rated, with Energy Factor >= 0.80	$400 per home
High Efficiency Gas Furnace	92 - 93 % Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating	$350 per home
High Efficiency Gas Furnace	94% + Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating	$450 per home
High Efficiency Gas Boiler	85% AFUE	$350 per home
High Efficiency Gas Boiler	95% AFUE	$600 per home

For more information, you can visit the program webpage here: http://www.conservationrebates.com/programs/chi/CHI_Index.aspx

Or call the Program's Call Center for more information: 866-964-7345