Congressman Carson Votes for Jobs, Energy Savings Legislation

May 5, 2010

May 6, 2010

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman André Carson voted to bring jobs and energy savings to Hoosier families as the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Home Star Energy Retrofit Act (H.R. 5019).

Through up-front rebates of up to $3,000 for energy efficient insulation, duct sealing, air sealing, windows, doors, and water heaters, as well as incentives for complete home energy-saving renovations, Home Star will encourage consumers who renovate their homes to become more energy-efficient. This program will help create well-paying jobs while saving money for American families.

"Even as signs of our economic recovery take shape, unemployment still remains high," said Congressman Carson. "This legislation will help jumpstart industries that have been the hardest hit by creating an estimated 168,000 American jobs in construction, manufacturing and retail. Together with the savings that families will see on their energy bills, it's clear this bill will have a positive impact on Hoosier businesses and families."

More Information about the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act:

Home Star will spur home energy renovation with two types of consumer incentives:

Silver Star - This provides up-front rebates for specific energy-saving investments, including insulation, duct sealing, windows and doors, air sealing and water heaters at the time of sale. Homeowners receive up to $1,500 per improvement, with a rebate of up to $3,000 or 50 percent of the total project cost.

Gold Star - This rewards homeowners who conduct a comprehensive energy audit and implement measures to reduce energy use, backed by a quality assurance program. Consumers receive $3,000 for a demonstrated savings of 20 percent, plus an additional $1,000 for each additional 5 percent energy savings up to $8,000 - capped at 50 percent of the project cost.

Oversight to Ensure Quality Installations: The bill requires that contractors be certified to perform efficiency installations. Independent quality assurance providers will conduct field audits after work is completed to ensure proper installation so that consumers are guaranteed the full energy savings from their upgrades. States would oversee the implementation of quality assurance.

Support for financing: The bill includes $324 million for State and local governments to provide financing options for consumers who need assistance with their share of the cost of energy efficiency improvements. This will help ensure that consumers can afford to make these investments.

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Congressman Carson Votes for Jobs, Energy Savings Legislation