| 1. New windows | | | | money in companies who actively benefit the |
| If you do not have them already, installing | | | | environment with their products, have projects running |
| energy-efficient, or double=paned windows can be a | | | | that help the environment, or have clean and |
| great way to use your refund. Not only will installing | | | | sustainable business modules. |
| these new windows keep the cold out and the heat in, | | | | 5. Recharge and Save |
| but you can also claim federal tax deductions for | | | | More than 3 billion batteries are purchased, used, and |
| qualifying installations, if installed before December 31st | | | | thrown away by Americans every year. That is a lot |
| of 2009. You can deduct 10% of the cost, up to $200 | | | | of money, and a lot of trash. Purchasing batteries and |
| for all windows, skylights, and storm windows. | | | | appliances that are rechargeable is a great way to |
| 2. Hybrid Vehicles | | | | save money and do good for the environment at the |
| The arrival of new and updated hybrids in 2009 also | | | | same time. |
| brings with it a round of new green auto deductions. If | | | | 6. Treat Your Kitchen |
| you purchase one of the new plug-in electric vehicles, | | | | Purchasing new appliances for your home will help you |
| you will qualify for a new tax credit, between $2,500 | | | | save energy and money, as well as give your Kitchen |
| and $7,500, based on the battery capacity. Get them | | | | a new look! You might be surprised at how much |
| quick though, as phase-outs begin after the first | | | | energy old microwaves, ovens, blenders, coffeepots, |
| 250,000 vehicles are sold. Additional credits are also | | | | etc. waste compared to new efficient models. |
| available to qualifying hybrid and biodiesel vehicles | | | | Remodeling your kitchen will all new appliances is a |
| manufactured after 2006, depending on their battery | | | | great “green” way to invest your refund, while |
| capability, manufacture date, and hybrid ability. | | | | also increasing the value of your property. |
| 3. Replace your Lights | | | | 7. New Heater or A/C |
| Replacing one older bulb with a newer, more efficient | | | | Updating to a new air conditioning and heating system |
| one can save you up to $350 throughout the light of | | | | will benefit you in many ways, including a nice tax |
| the bulb! Replacing all lights in your home (or office) | | | | benefit. As long as your new a/c and or heater was |
| with new, energy efficient bulbs is a great way to | | | | placed in to service between Jan. 1st 2009 and Dec. |
| spend your refund because it will also save you | | | | 31st, you can claim a credit of $300, or possibly even |
| money in the future. Additionally, if you are remodeling | | | | more depending on the system you used. Check the |
| a building and purchase more efficient lighting for it, you | | | | IRS website for a full list of credit qualifying products. |
| may even qualify for a deduction or credit for doing so. | | | | 8. Alternative Energy Stocks |
| 4. Green Mutual Funds | | | | If you like to play the stock game, and you love the |
| Much like other mutual funds, “green” mutual | | | | planet, then you may be interested in investing in |
| funds take your money and invest it in to other | | | | alternative energy stocks. It can be confusing if you |
| companies, hopefully giving you a good return on | | | | are a beginner, but as the trend spreads there will be |
| investment over time. What makes “green” | | | | more information available. For now, check out sites |
| mutual funds different is that they only invest your | | | | like for more ideas and tips. |