Rebuilding New Orleans and Louisiana Energy Efficiently
Programs and Tax Credits for helping New Orleans and Louisiana
residents rebuild their homes to more energy efficient levels
Entergy is committed to helping customers manage their energy costs. Many
customers and employees will need to rebuild their homes that were damaged by
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. This list describes Louisiana programs and
federal tax credits to help people rebuild their homes better than they were
before, by making them more energy efficient.
Homeowner Resources
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Federal Tax Credits and Appliance Rebates for Homeowners
Under the new energy bill, consumers are eligible for up to a $500 tax credit
for money spent on energy improvements in their homes. For example, you can
get a $300 credit for installing a highly efficient central air conditioner,
heat pump or water heater, or a $200 credit for installing energy-saving
windows. To be eligible for the tax credit, these improvements must be
2006-2007. You would receive the tax credit in the tax form you file by April
15 of 2007 or 2008.
For more information visit the Energy Star Web site at www.energystar.gov/taxcredits
When you buy a new appliance, look for the ENERGY STAR label that will save
money in energy use over time. ENERGY STAR is a government-back program
helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior
energy efficiency. Energy efficient choices can save families about a third on
their energy bill with similar savings of greenhouse gas emissions, without
sacrificing features, style or comfort. For more information please visit www.ENERGYSTAR.gov
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Under this program, homeowners can get reduced interest home improvement loans
to make energy-related improvements to their existing homes. DNR will finance
half of the improvements at two percent interest, up to a maximum of $6,000 on
the DNR portion.
To participate in the HELP program, homeowners must use a lending institution
participating in the program. For a list of participating lenders call the
HELP hotline at 1-800-836-9589.
There are two ways homeowners can qualify for HELP low-interest home
improvement loans. They can have an energy rating conducted on their home or
they can choose from a list of pre-approved improvements. Information on how
to apply and a list of pre-approved items is available at this Web site: www.dnr.state.la.us/SEC/EXECDIV/TECHASMT/programs/residential/help
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Louisiana Home Energy Rebate Option program
The Louisiana Home Energy Rebate Option (HERO) offers an actual cash payment
for Louisiana residents who build or improve homes to high levels of energy
efficiency. The amount of the cash payment depends on the level of energy
savings and the amount spent. The cash payment can be up to a maximum of
$2,000. The energy savings is determined by a home energy rating that is
required on all homes participating in the program. The cost of the energy
rating depends on the size and complexity of the house.
Applications for HERO are made by contacting a Louisiana Home Energy Rater,
who are listed on the DNR HERO Web site. Information and step-by-step
instructions are also available on this site: www.dnr.state.la.us/SEC/EXECDIV/TECHASMT/programs
/residential/hero/instructions.htm
Builder and Commercial Resources
The LA House is a research-based showcase for home construction sponsored by
the LSU AgCenter and many partners, including Entergy. It educates homeowners
and contractors about building homes with more comfort, durability and health
while using less energy, resources and damage from natural hazards. The LA
House is a great resource for technical solutions to building better,
including hurricane protection building techniques. More information is
available at www.LouisianaHouse.org
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Federal Tax Credits for Builders/Contractors
Homebuilders and producers of standard and manufactured homes are eligible for
tax credits of $1,000 - $2,000 per home for building energy efficient housing.
This credit applies to homes substantially constructed and acquired by the
occupant during 2006 or 2007, and would be claimed on business tax returns
submitted for those years.
The requirements are that the home must be significantly (30-50%) more
efficient in heating and cooling that homes that comply with IECC 2003.
Building envelope improvements must contribute 1/5 to ½ of savings.
A deduction will be available in 2006-2007 for commercial buildings reducing
their energy usage by 50%. The maximum deduction is $1.80 per square foot of
the building.
More information on federal tax credits for builders and the commercial sector
is available at www.NatResnet.org
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For more information, please contact: Tracey Brodeur Market Program
Developer 281-297-5528
tbrodeu@entergy.com
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