green_building_archive
Obama & The Green New Deal
NECA/IBEW Local 48 has worked hard to emerge as leaders in the installation of green and renewable technology. While America's economic crisis threatens to slow down the construction industry, President-Elect Barack Obama has indicated that the green revolution could be the centerpiece of rebuilding the American economy. In an article titled "What Obama presidency means for clean tech," CNET News reports:
"President-elect Barack Obama has advocated investing in clean energy to create ‘green jobs.' Here are some possible policy changes.
An investment in upgrading the power grid which would make it easier to use solar and wind.
A national renewable portfolio standard that mandates utilities get 10 percent of electricity from solar, wind, or geothermal by 2012."
Bailout Bill Signed into Law, Including 8 Year Solar Tax Credit Extension
Today, by a vote of 263-171, the U.S. House of Representatives passed historic legislation that extends the 30-percent federal investment tax credit for both residential and commercial solar installations for 8 years.
This landmark legislation is part of the $700 billion H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, designed to address the U.S. financial crisis. It is the most significant federal policy ever enacted for the solar industry. President Bush has already signed the bill into law.
The solar tax credit provisions will:
- Extend for 8 years the 30-percent tax credit for both residential and commercial solar installations;
- Eliminate the $2,000 monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, creating a true 30-percent credit;
- Eliminate the prohibition on utilities from benefiting from the credit;
- Allow Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) filers, both businesses and families, to take the credit; and
- Authorize $800 million for clean energy bonds for renewable energy generating facilities, including solar.
NECA/IBEW Local 48’s ongoing commitment to building leadership and excellence has contributed to the numerous green building projects in the Pacific Northwest. Read more…
PGE has launched its new Green Power Oregon page. Click here to learn more about green power in Oregon.
Tax Credits
Energy Saving Tips
From installing dimmer switches to closing doors to rooms you are not using, these simple energy tips can save natural resources while saving you money! Click here to read more.
The Home Energy Saver Energy Audit Tool
Do you want to save almost $700 per year on your utility bills? The Home Energy Saver Energy Audit Tool can evaluate your energy usage and help you to convert your home into an energy efficient home, saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint. Click here to learn more.
NECA/IBEW Local 48 were pioneers in the green revolution, first introducing renewable energy technology into our electrical training program in 1983. Today, of the 3,400 active IBEW Local 48 apprentices and journeymen, nearly 1,000 are specially trained in conservation and renewable energy technologies.
