This week, the energy conservation organization observed that even with the recent drop in fuel costs, consumers can still expect to spend more on their overall heating costs this winter, no matter what kind of system they have.
"New federal income tax credits for energy efficiency home upgrades made in 2009 can partially offset the up-front cost of new equipment such as highly efficient furnaces and heat pumps or ENERGY STAR windows" said the group's president, Kateri Callahan.
The tax credits were part of this year's emergency economic stabilization bill.
On its website, the Alliance notes that consumers can receive up to $500 in tax savings for eco-friendly home improvements. This applies to products like Energy Star windows, insulation and sealing, central air conditioning or heat pump systems, and ground source heat pumps.
Tax credits are also available for home renewable energy systems, including solar, plus hybrid vehicles and for businesses that invest in such products.
Callahan observed that the typical U.S. home emits 25,000 pounds of carbon dioxide each year, twice the emissions of the average automobile - and that in this case, people can save money while helping the planet.
