From the EfficiencyMaine.com web site: 
Officials at Efficiency Maine have extended a $1,000 bonus offer for Maine homeowners who weatherize their homes to improve energy efficiency and save money. The bonus means Maine homeowners may qualify for up to $5,500 in combined cash incentives and federal tax credits. Homeowners and landlords of all income levels are encouraged to apply by August 31, 2010.
“There’s been a run on energy audits, and we couldn’t be happier,” stated Michael Stoddard, Executive Director of Efficiency Maine. The energy audit is the first step toward installing insulation, air sealing, and heating system upgrades and receipt of a package of rebates and tax credits. Stoddard cited a five-fold increase in program participation since the $1,000 bonus was instituted as a reason to extend the deadline for completing projects to the end of 2010. Stoddard said of extending the deadline, “Customer satisfaction is critically important to Efficiency Maine and we want more customers to have access to this terrific program and to be more comfortable in their energy efficient homes.”
The bonus was initially announced in June as a special offer to supplement existing cash incentives offered through Efficiency Maine’s Home Energy Savings Program. Originally homeowners had to complete the work by August 31. With the extension, customers simply need to sign up online by August 31, 2010, complete an energy audit by September 30, 2010 and complete the work by December 31, 2010 to be eligible for the special $1,000 bonus.
The program is funded by stimulus dollars through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. For more information about the ARRA stimulus funds and home energy-saving programs offered through Efficiency Maine click here.
