U.S. House approves rebates for energy-saving home work
The US House has passed the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010 – legislation that will significantly reduce pollution and create an estimated 168,000 clean energy jobs over the next two years. The Home Star residential retrofit program would provide rebates and incentives to consumers who invest in new energy efficient appliances, weatherize their homes, or purchase other efficient technologies for their home
The House has passed legislation that would make homeowners who install energy-saving appliances and products eligible for thousands of dollars in rebates.
Democrats who promoted the "Home Star" bill said it would have the triple benefit of reinvigorating the slumping construction industry, saving homeowners billions in energy costs and improving the environment.
The $6 billion bill, dubbed Cash for Caulkers because of its resemblance to the popular Cash for Clunkers vehicle exchange program last year, would entitle homeowners to as much as $3,000 for installing energy-efficient insulation, doors and windows. People who retrofit their entire homes could get up to $8,000 under the two-year program.
By Jim Abrams, Associated Press
Environment America's Clean Energy Advocate, Sean Garren, released the following statement in response:
“We applaud Chairman Waxman and Representatives Markey of Massachusetts, Welch, Ehlers and Cardoza as well as House Leadership for passing the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010, which will reduce global warming pollution immediately, put Americans to work in clean energy jobs, and save families and businesses money in energy costs.
“Forty percent of America’s energy is consumed in America’s buildings and much of that is wasted; which leads to excess pollution and dollars flowing out of our wallets and our local economy. America currently has the technology, the know-how and a skilled workforce that is ready to improve the energy performance of our homes , while dramatically reducing pollution. The Home Star Program will provide homeowners with the much needed incentives and financing mechanisms to help folks make their homes more energy efficient and to reap the tremendous benefits for our economy and our environment.
“Home Star would reduce energy consumption by the equivalent of three coal-fired power plants each year, if fully funded with $6 billion. In addition, through this program consumers are anticipated to save between $200 and $500 per year in energy costs, while reducing global warming pollution and improving the comfort and value of their homes.
“Home Star is a critical piece of a comprehensive national strategy to reduce pollution and become more energy secure. We look forward to working with the Senate and the Administration to pass Home Star, get it signed into law and appropriate the needed funding. This program will help bring our homes into the 21st century and put Americans to work in our new clean energy economy.”
For more information about the benefits of a comprehensive program to improve the energy efficiency of our nation’s buildings, read Environment America’s recent report: Building Better: How High-Efficiency Buildings Will Save Money and Reduce Global Warming.
