Response 5: AUGUSTA: Getting wind of saving cash

This article was really cool to find because not only is it local, but it tells about offers that are being made to people in Maine to help them pay for getting wind or solar power! This is a great way to get people started when it comes to reaching out and taking the initiative to get renewable energy for yourself. The rebates that are being given out sound like they're going fast, and there aren't many of them. $1,000 or 25% of the bill is a lot to take off, especially for many Mainers. This could just be enough for some homeowners or businesses to get the push they've been needing to go green. Unfortunately it sounds like the demand might outway the supply and people who apply would have to be selected at random for this rebate.
Programs like this are just what Americans need. If people can get this type of discount and then pay the rest off as their monthly energy bill, then way more people would be interested in sustainable energy. The general population should also be more informed about the options of sustainable energy, so they can make the right choice for they environment. For example, wind is a natural choice for Maine, as well as solar energy is a good choice for more southern states like Florida and Georgia. I also believe that the government should create more of these programs and grants like this because it sounded as though this program was struggling of lack of money to distribute. Overall this is a great plan to get people started with sustainable energy options.

Article 5: AUGUSTA: Getting wind of saving cash

- "Efficiency Maine, a Maine Public Utilities Commission program," has created this program for small business or residential inhabitants that are looking to install small wind energy systems on their land.
- A new state program offers "Rebates of up to $2,000 for qualified residential wind systems ..."
- Rebates for nonresidential wind systems are available up to "$4,000."
- The demand for these rebates exceeded the funding available last year. The funding has been renewed, but is still limited so it will most likely run out again this year.
- "maximum rebate for qualified systems will be $1,000 -- or 25 percent of the installed cost, whichever is less -- for both residential or commercial applications."
- Solar photovoltaic systems have a maximum rebate of "$2,000 per installation."
- Applicants may be selected at random if the funding runs out again by the 1st quarter.