Fed Watch: Energy Provisions Catch On in the Heartland

Renewable energy provisions in the Energy Bill, previously mentioned in this blog, have begun to generate notice in the heartland. This article from Missouri describes farmers, frustrated by high energy prices, looking into new federal incentives for alternative energy use. The piece reports the following:

As of Jan. 1, 2006, federal officials offer some relief to encourage renewable energy use. Consumers can take advantage of tax credits on some items and rebates on others.

For solar panels and solar water heater purchases, you can earn tax credits of up to 30 percent of the cost, with a $2,000 cap. For installation of renewable energy systems -- including solar, wind and biomass -- Uncle Sam will rebate up to 25 percent of cost, with a $3,000 cap.

Farmers have begun utilizing such alternative energy sources as corn stoves in order to cut back on propane and gasoline. According to the article, this has led to calls for State alternative energy incentives (Missouri currently offers none). With farmers in Missouri petitioning for renewable energy incentives, it seems that alternative energy has finally made its way to mainstream America.