House passes energy incentives bill, 97-0

(Frankfort, KY) A bill that would provide tax incentives for energy-efficient improvements to homes and businesses cleared the Kentucky House by a 97-0 vote today.

House Bill 2, sponsored by House Majority Floor Leader Rep. Rocky Adkins, would offer limited nonrefundable tax credits for energy improvements including, but not limited to, insulation upgrades, solar and wind systems, energy efficient lighting or HVAC systems and purchase or construction of an "Energy Star" (federal Energy Star program) dwelling. Credits would total up to $500 per taxpayer for residential projects, up to $1,000 per taxpayer on commercial and multi-family rental property projects (for some upgrades), $800 per taxpayer for purchase or construction of an Energy Star home and $400 for purchase of an Energy Star manufactured home.

The credits would be offered between 2009 and 2015 and would help Kentucky 's energy policy to continue moving forward, said Adkins, D-Sandy Hook.

"During the special session last year, this General Assembly (took) a very significant step toward putting Kentucky at the forefront of the energy arena," said Adkins. "This is the next step."

Other provisions in HB 2 would increase construction of energy efficient state buildings, assess potential energy savings in public school buildings and promote private investment in hydroelectric power at Kentucky River dams.

The bill now goes to the Senate for its consideration.