Residential and ENERGY STAR FAQs
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What makes a product ENERGY STAR? ENERGY STAR® products are the same or better than standard products, but they use less energy. To earn the ENERGY STAR, they must meet strict efficiency criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the US Department of Energy. Since the products use less energy, they save you money on your energy bill and help protect the environment by causing fewer harmful emissions from power plants. Some examples:
What types of products qualify for the ENERGY STAR label? Nearly all products that use gas or electricity can qualify, including lighting products, heating and air conditioning, computers, office equipment, and refrigerators. For a complete listing of products, visit the ENERGY STAR website at www.energystar.gov.
Where can I go for information on 2006 and 2007 tax credits for energy efficiency improvements?
Does New Jersey's Clean Energy Program provide rebates for the installation of new windows or insulation? Currently there are no rebates offered for the purchase and installation of new windows or insulation. However, there are federal tax credits available. You can find more information on this and other tax credits available for energy efficiency improvements at www.ase.org/taxcredits. We also encourage you to install ENERGY STAR rated windows.
How can I do an energy audit of my home? Take our online home energy analysis to find out how you can begin reducing your energy use and saving money. Click here to get started. Also, learn how you can save up to 30% on your energy bills by having a certified technician evaluate your home through the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program.
Do you have a contractor list for air conditioning or furnace installations? The Program does not maintain a list of contractors, but we do have available an informative brochure on how to select a quality contractor for your energy efficient furnace or air conditioner installation. The Eastern Heating & Cooling Council (EHCC), a non-profit training organization, can provide you with this brochure, as well as a listing of NATE certified contractors in your area. The EHCC can be reached at 1-800-247-6547 or at www.eh-cc.org.
Are there incentives for businesses in New Jersey to use less energy? Yes. New Jersey's Clean Energy Program offers rebates and design assistance to commercial and industrial customers, as well as to schools and municipalities that want to reduce their energy costs. From simple lighting upgrades to complete retrofits, the NJ SmartStart Buildings Program and ENERGY STAR combine to help small and large users reduce their energy consumption.
What incentives are available for new construction in New Jersey? The Program provides incentives for energy efficiency upgrades for both new homes and commercial buildings being constructed in Smart Growth areas. Smart Growth areas are those areas designated in the state master plan as Planning areas 1 and 2, as well as Designated Centers. To determine if a location is in the Smart Growth area, visit the Smart Growth Locator at http://sgl.state.nj.us/hmfa/hmfa_locator.htm. How should I clean up a broken compact fluorescent bulb (CFL)? Because CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends the following clean-up and disposal guidelines.
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