AZ NEW ENERGY GETS STIM

Green energy to get big lift from stimulus
Ryan Randazzo, March 15, 2009 (Arizona Republic)

"Arizona companies that develop alternative energy - and state agencies that promote those technologies - are scrambling to take advantage of at least $50 billion set aside in the federal stimulus package.

"The more than $57 million coming directly to the state for weatherization is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs needed to make low-income households more energy efficient…Billions of dollars more directed nationwide at alternative energy are expected to help build solar and wind-power plants that could help companies in Arizona, which have seen a slowdown in activity amid the recession…

"Stimulus funds are widely viewed as just the beginning of pledges made by the new president's administration to prop up the renewable-energy industry…Alternative energy also should see a significant boost if the administration moves ahead with proposals to limit the amount of emissions that come from coal-fired power plants and create a national requirement that utilities provide a set amount of renewable energy."

Taxpayers can't make a better investment than in this sun. (click to enlarge)

"People who want to put solar panels or wind turbines on their homes are expected to be able to apply for the 30 percent tax credit to be taken up front as a grant, just like large power plants, although details are not yet available on how to apply.

"Previously, solar hot-water heaters, a far more economical way to tap sun power, had a tax-credit cap of $2,000. That cap has been removed and now those systems qualify for a full 30 percent incentive just like solar panels that make electricity.

"People hoping to buy electric vehicles will qualify for a $7,500 tax credit."