Financial Opportunities for Consumers
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Although the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy does not directly fund consumer energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, many other opportunities exist. To learn more about financial opportunities for consumers and homeowners, visit the following sites:
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Alliance to Save Energy
Through the Alliance to Save Energy Web site, you can get an overview of energy efficiency financing.
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Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)
This database includes state-by-state financial and regulatory incentives (such as tax credits, grants, rebates, and special utility rates) for renewable energy technologies.
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Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency
Information from ENERGY STAR on federal tax credits for home improvements, efficient vehicles, solar energy systems, and fuel cells.
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Financing an Energy-Efficient Home
This fact sheet from the Department of Energy features an overview of energy-efficient financing programs from mortgages to home improvement loans.
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Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET)
RESNET is a national network of mortgage companies, real estate brokerages, builders, appraisers, utilities, and other housing and energy professionals. This Web site offers state contact information for certified energy raters and lenders who know how to process energy efficiency mortgages, a home energy rating systems primer, and an overview of energy efficient mortgages.
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U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program
DOE's Weatherization Assistance Program works with states and local governments to enable low-income families to permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy-efficient.
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U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Energy-Efficient Mortgage Program
The Energy-Efficient Mortgage Program is one of many Federal Housing Authority programs that insure mortgage loans to encourage lenders to make mortgage credit available to borrowers, such as first-time homebuyers, who would not otherwise qualify for conventional loans on affordable terms.