The Federal Government provides incentives for commercial and residential entities to use energy efficient lighting measures. According to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency, the Federal Government will offer any commercial entity $0.30 to $1.80 per square foot of the building, depending on the technology and amount of energy reduction, to allow the company to become more environmentally friendly. The term “energy efficient lighting” includes the use of extremely energy efficient LED light bulbs. Generally, corporate buildings are outfitted with stronger, and therefore more expensive, light bulbs than residential buildings, and require more of them. It can become rather expensive, so, as a result, the government provides incentives for corporations to become more energy efficient. The Government also provides a Tribal Energy Program Grant for tribal governments. The amount they provide varies by solicitation. The Government will also possible provide personal exemptions for individuals looking to install energy efficient applications. If eligible, the amount provided is 100% of the subsidy.
Other than the Federal Government providing energy efficiency lighting incentives, various State Governments provide them for commercial purposes, as well as personal, residential purposes. The state of Kentucky is one of the few states in the US that provide a corporate tax incentive for companies using energy efficient measures, including LED tube lighting for offices. This particular incentive is available to all commercial, industrial, construction, installer/contractor, or agricultural groups. Kentucky’s state government is willing to arrange for 30% of the installed cost of lighting projects, with a maximum of $500. This incentive remains in effect until the end of 2015. Georgia is another state in the US that provides an incentive for businesses to become more energy efficient. Suitable entities include commercial, industrial, agricultural, and multi-family residencies. The state government is willing to provide $0.60 per square foot of the eligible group’s building or space. This incentive was enacted July 1st, 2008 and will continue until December 31st, 2014.
Several incentives for personal and residential purposes are provided by states, depending on which state you live in. The state of Montana offers a personal tax credit of 25% of cost in capital investment for residential and multi-family residential groups. The state of Missouri provides a personal tax deduction of 100% of the cost of eligible improvements for “unspecified technologies” for residential purposes. This offer expires at the end of 2013. Wisconsin has a state rebate program for residential and multi-family groups. The offer is $200 for 15% of energy savings, and $700 for 25% energy savings. The state of Indiana has a Green Building Incentive Program for commercial, industrial, residential, non-profit, school, local government, construction, state government, federal government, multi-family residential, low-income residential, agricultural, and institutional entities. However, the amount provided is not specified. Maryland offers a sales tax for energy efficient appliances, including efficient lighting, for a 100% exemption. The state of Maine has their very own Residential Lighting Program for residential purposes only. They will typically provide $1.25 per light bulb.
Almost every power company will provide incentives, such as rebates, for people to take energy efficient measures and to work towards a more sustainable environment. Check with your local power or electric company to see what incentives they provide to encourage you to use efficient LED light bulbs. You can also visit the website to see various incentives provided in your area www.dsireusa.org
