President Obama finalizes his adminstration's push for a clean energy agenda today, which also emphasized the prospects for an economic recovery fueled by "green-jobs". "The jobs of tomorrow will be jobs in the clean energy sector," Obama said. "That's why my administration's taking steps to support a thriving clean energy industry across this country." Obama highlighted his proposed Home Star program, which was first outlined in the State of the Union address. The program would provide rebates to homeowners of up to $3,000 for making energy-efficient improvements to their houses. Customers would also be eligible for direct rebates at a point of sale. Among other things, this program would also provide 50% rebates of up to $1,500 for simpler upgrades, such as the installation of better insulation, duct sealing, water heaters, windows, doors and roofing. The $3,000 upgrade would be reserved for more comprehensive retrofits that include a whole home energy audit and retrofit designed to achieve 20% energy savings. The White House has predicted that between 2 million and 3 million homeowners will participate in the program. In addition, this program was designed to help cut the construction industry's 25% unemployment rate.
It's good to see that Obama is finally making some changes to the economy, as he promised. By rebating homeowners for installing energy-efficient upgrades seem like a good idea. This method can help attract more homeowners to "go green". Which will also benefit the community. And cutting back employment rate in construction industries will help put more people back to work. I really hope this program works out.
Friday, March 5, 2010
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This blog is really interesting to me considering the fact that my research topic is centered around solar energy and the policy behind it. I like Obama's Home Star Program because of its goals but it truly needs more incentive than just some rebates and tax deductibles. Also, he needs to promote larger clean energy approaches like using solar panels in homes to either heat water or provide electricity; basically the home should try and avoid anything that uses fuel. Overall however, Obama has done a good job in promoting his program and it should have some really positive results if people believe in it and participate in it. Every bit really truly does help in the grand scheme of things.
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