Financial Incentives

In addition to the many benefits of living in a green home, there are many financial incentives that can help make green homeownership even more affordable.

Funding opportunities and incentives:

• The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) provides a comprehensive database of state, federal, and utility incentives, rebates, and tax credits for using materials and practices that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. The information is searchable by a number of variables, including state, technology, type of incentive, and more.
• The ENERGY STAR program includes among its many resources a listing of tax credits for consumers and homeowners, home builders, and manufacturers.
• The Green Building section of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) website features a directory of green building funding sources targeted for several audiences including consumers, and industry sectors.
• Be sure to consult your Local Program website; your local home building association may maintain local contacts and a directory of applicable incentive opportunities.

Financing and Loans

• The Federal Citizen Information Center offers a Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) Home Owner Guide, which details the benefits and opportunities of this type of financing.
• The Department of Housing and Urban Development also contains information about EEMs, and provides links to more information.
• The Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) offers frequently asked questions and additional resources on EEMs.
• The ENERGY STAR website explains the three types of EEMs.