Up to $350 in Rebates for Energy Efficient Equipment
Alexandria Light and Power offers its residential customers several rebate programs. Eligible efficient technologies are: Energy Star clothes washers; dryers; Energy Star dehumidifiers; water heaters, lighting; Energy Star heat pumps; and air conditioners. Incentive amounts are: compact fluorescent lights $1.50/light (with purchase of ten or more); water heater $200 (50-79 gallon tank), $350 (80+ gallon tank); air conditioner $200; Energy Star clothes washer $50 (electric customers), $75 (electric and water customers); Energy Star dehumidifier $25; and Energy Star heat pump $200. Contact: Rebate Programs, Alexandria Light and Power, 316 Fillmore, PO Box 609, Alexandria, MN 56308; 320-763-6501; Fax: 320-762-1411; http://www.alputilities.com/for_home/rebates.cfm

Rebates to $500 for Energy Efficiency
Alliant Energy-Interstate Power & Light offers a number of rebates for energy efficiency covering a variety of technologies. Eligible efficient technologies include: clothes washers/dryers, water heaters, lighting, furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, programmable thermostats, building insulation, and windows. The eligible renewable technology is geothermal heat pumps. Incentive amounts are: lighting $2/lightbulb; boilers $100-$400; furnaces $200-$300; central air conditioners $75-$225; geothermal heat pump $150-$300; programmable thermostats $25; attic insulation 70% of total cost; room air conditioners $50; water heaters $25; clothes washer $100;  and windows/sash $20. Maximum incentives are: lighting min - $10, max - $20; programmable thermostats $125; attic insulation $500; room air conditioners $150; and water heaters $75. Contact: Alliant Energy-IP&L, Residential Programs, 4902 North Biltmore Lane, P.O. Box 77007, Madison, WI 53707-1007; 800-255-4268; Fax: 608-458-0100; http://alliantenergy.com/docs/groups/public/documents/pub/p014527.hcsp

Incentives to $350 for Energy Efficient Appliances
Anoka Municipal Utilities offers incentives for their residential customers to install energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs in their homes. Rebates are available for Energy Star qualified central A/C units, room air conditioners, compact fluorescent lightbulbs, refrigerators, and dishwashers. Some restrictions apply. Incentive amounts are: refrigerator $55; dishwasher $50; central A/C: $250 - $350, varies by efficiency; room air conditioner $30/unit (limit of 2 units per account); lighting - the cost of the bulb or $5.00, whichever is less (limit of $15 per account per year). Contact: Appliance Rebates, Anoka Municipal Utilities, 2015 First Avenue, Anoka, MN 55303; 763-576-2903; 763-576-2700; Fax: 763-576-2727; Contact: Home Lighting Rebate, Anoka Municipal Utilities, 2015 First Avenue, Anoka, MN 55303; 763-576-2750; 763-576-2700; http://www.ci.anoka.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7B03DDAD7B-EC66-4214-97D8-EB42DA396059%7D

Generous Rebates for Energy Efficient and Renewable Technologies
Austin Utilities offers incentives for its residential customers to install energy efficient equipment in their homes through their Conserve and Save Rebate Program. Eligible efficient technologies are: dishwasher, refrigerators/freezers, dehumidifiers, water heaters, lighting, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, air conditioners, building insulation, motors, clothes washers, and ceiling fans (with lighting). Incentive amounts are: central A/C $200 each, additional SEER = $75; clothes washer $50; ceiling fans with lights $15; light fixtures (torchieres, hardwired CFLs, etc) $15; programmable thermostat $25; dishwashers $25; refrigerators/freezers/room air conditioners $25; dehumidifiers $65 with trade-in of working unit; compact fluorescent light bulbs 50% of bulb or package cost; geothermal heat pumps $200/ton plus $150 per EER over 14.1; air source heat pumps $200 plus $75/SEER for each SEER above 14; furnace fan motor $50; boilers $100 - $300, depending on efficiency; furnaces: $100 - $200, depending on efficiency; water heaters $75; tankless water heaters $200; attic Insulation $0.05/sq ft - $0.08/sq ft; and air source heat pump $200 + $75 for each SEER greater than 14.0. Contact: Customer Service, Austin Public Utilities, 400 4th St NE, Austin, MN 55912-3495; 507-433-8886; Fax: 507-433-5045; http://www.austinutilities.com/pages/residential_conserve_incentives.asp

Production Incentive for Photovoltaic Solar Arrays
Austin Public Utility's Solar Choice program encourages customers to install photovoltaic solar arrays and connect them to their utilities' electrical distribution system by offering an incentive payment based on the system's production on a $/kWh basis. Maximum incentive is $1.00/kWh and the maximum generation project that may be interconnected with the distribution system is 40 kW. Solar Choice is not for customers who want to install renewable energy sources for back-up power generation at their home or business. Contact: Austin Public Utilities, 400 4th St NE, Austin, MN 55912; 507-437-0855; http://www.austinutilities.com/pages/environment_solarChoice.asp

Incentives to Improve Your Home's Energy Efficiency
Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA) is a joint-action agency which generates and sells reliable electricity at wholesale to its eighteen non-profit, municipally-owned member utilities and develops innovative products and services to help them deliver value to their customers. With help from SMMPA, Blooming Prairie Public Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Eligible efficiency technologies are: clothes washers/dryers, dishwasher, refrigerators/freezers, dehumidifiers, lighting, heat pumps, air conditioners, and ceiling fans with lighting. Incentive amounts range from $2 for fluorescent light bulbs to $200 for air conditioners (plus $75/SEER for every 1 SEER above 14). Contact: Blooming Prairie Public Utilities, PO Box 55, 146 Third Avenue SE, Blooming Prairie, MN 55917; 507-583-6683; http://www.saveenergyinbloomingprairie.com/

Up to $350 in Energy Efficiency Rebates
North St Paul Electric Utility, in conjunction with the Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, offers incentives for its residential customers to install energy efficient equipment in their homes. Rebates are available for qualifying central A/C units, refrigerators/freezers, clothes washers/dryers, and window air conditioners. Incentive amounts are: central A/C $350; refrigerator $55; clothes washer $100; dishwasher: $50; and window air conditioner $30 (limit two per customer). Contact: Utility Billing, North St Paul Electric Utility, 2400 Margaret Street N, North St. Paul, MN 55109; 651-747-2413; 651-747-2400; http://www.ci.north-saint-paul.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7BF5C1E5FE-1ADD-49AF-ACD8-59C3FB4192FF%7D

Generous Rebates to Install Energy Efficient Equipment
Crow Wing Power offers several different incentives for its residential customers to increase the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates of $200/ton are provided to customers who install heat pumps with requisite efficiency in their homes. Another rebate worth $30 -$330 is available to customers who install Energy Star rated central air conditioning units or air-source heat pumps. In addition to these rebates, customers can also receive special electric rate reductions if they take part in one of Crow Wing Power's demand-shifting programs. Contact: Customer Service, Crow Wing Power, PO Box 507, Hwy 371 North, Brainerd, MN 56401; 218-829-2827; 800-648-9401; http://www.cwpower.com/airconditioning.shtml

Loans to $10,000 to Improve the Energy Efficiency of Your Home
Dakota Electric, in association with Anchor Bank, provides loans to assist residential customers finance energy efficient improvements to their homes. The loans range from $1,000 and $10,000 and are available with terms up to 5 years. They can only be used for energy conservation projects. The interest rate is fixed at 7.99%, but is adjusted quarterly for future loans. Eligible efficiency technologies are: lighting, windows, doors, comprehensive measures/whole building, custom/others pending approval. Interested customers should call to verify the current rate.  Contact: Energy Experts, Dakota Electric Service, 4300 220th Street West, Farmington, MN 55024; 651-463-6243; 800-874-3409; Contact: Anchor Bank, 324 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024; 651-463-1531; Fax: 651-463-7163; http://www.dakotaelectric.com/energyloan.asp

Rebates to $330 for a Variety of Energy Efficient Equipment
Dakota Electric Association provides incentives for its residential customers to install energy efficient equipment in their homes. Rebates are available for a variety of products including dishwashers, clothes washers, dehumidifiers, heat pumps, electric water heaters, and CFL bulbs.  Limited rebate funds are available, and rebates are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis. Rebate amounts vary from $2 per each fluorescent bulb to $330 for air source heat pumps and central air conditioners. Contact: Energy Experts, Dakota Electric Service, 4300 220th Street West, Farmington, MN 55024; 651-463-6243; 800-874-3409; http://www.dakotaelectric.com/resrebates.asp

Rebates to Purchase Energy Efficient Equipment
East Central Energy provides rebates for its residential customers to purchase energy efficient equipment through their Energy Star Rebate Program. Rebates are offered for dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators, dehumidifiers, air conditioning window units, central air conditioning units, air-source heat pumps, and lighting fixtures. Incentive amounts are: air-source heat pump up to $430; central A/C up to $330; clothes washer $25; dishwasher $25; dehumidifier $25; ground-source heat pump $200 per ton; refrigerator/freezer $50-$75, depending on whether old appliance is recycled; A/C window unit $35; and lighting fixtures $20. In addition to the residential rebate program, ECE also offers a $50 tune-up incentive for existing air conditioning units that are more than 5 years old. Used fluorescent lamps and high-intensity discharge lamps are also eligible for $0.50/lamp recycling rebate offered in conjunction with participating hardware stores. Contact: East Central Energy, 3617 E. Baumgartner Rd, Superior, WI 54880; 800-254-7944; http://www.eastcentralenergy.com/res_rebate_forms.aspx

$800 Rebate for Energy Efficient and Renewable Technologies
Elk River Municipal Utilities provides rebates to their residential electric customers who purchase and install Energy Star rated appliances. Eligible equipment includes central A/C, window unit A/C, air-source and geothermal heat pumps, dehumidifiers, dishwashers, clothes washers, refrigerators, and water heaters. Incentive amounts range from $30 for a dehumidifier to $800 for a geothermal heat pump. In addition to appliance rebate opportunities, Elk River Municipal Utilities also offers $60 in reimbursements for A/C tune-ups conducted by HVAC contractors. Contact: Customer Service, Elk River Municipal Utilities, 13065 Orono Pkwy, Elk River, MN 55330; 763-441-2020; http://www.elkriverutilities.com/

Rebates to Improve Energy Efficiency in Your Home
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Fairmont Public Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners (central and room), ceiling fans, light fixtures (e.g. torchieres, hardwired CFLs), heat pumps (air and ground source), dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Incentives range from $2 for compact fluorescent bulbs to $200 for central A/Cs and heat pumps (plus $75 per each SEER above 14 for both). Contact: Fairmont Public Utilities, PO Box 751, 100 Downtown Plaza, Fairmont, MN 56031-0751; 507-238-9461; http://www.saveenergyinfairmont.com/

Rebates for Energy Efficient Equipment
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Grand Marais PUC provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners (central and room), ceiling fans with lighting, light fixtures (e.g. hardwired CFLs),  air and ground source heat pumps, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Incentive amounts vary from $2 for fluorescent bulbs to $200 for central A/C and heat pumps (both may qualify for a bonus of $75 per SEER above 14). Contact: Grand Marais PUC, PO Box 1398, Grand Marais, MN 55604-1398; 218-387-1848; http://www.saveenergyingrandmarais.com/

$4000 Incentive in Solar-Electric Rebate Program
Great River Energy (GRE) member cooperative utilities offer a rebate of $2,000 per kilowatt for grid-connected solar-electric (PV) systems, with a maximum award of $4,000 per customer. This program, which is available to member utilities' residential customers, began in September 2005 and is subject to availability of funding. GRE's rebate for PV systems may be combined with the state's solar-electric rebate, which also offers $2,000 per kilowatt for installed PV systems. Please note that the Minnesota Solar Electric Rebate Program is fully reserved. The Office of Energy Security (OES) will continue to accept applications to be placed on a waiting list pending additional funding and will notify applicants if additional funding becomes available. Contact: Great River Energy, 17845 East Highway 10, Elk River, MN 55330; 763-241-2447; 763-441-3121; Fax: 763-241-2366; http://www.greatriverenergy.com/environment/gre_solar_fact_sheet.pdf

$10,000 Loans to Make Energy Efficient Home Improvements
The Home Energy Loan Program is a statewide program of the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency administered by the Center for Energy and Environment Financial Resources. It offers loans up to $10,000 at 6.25% APR with a maximum term of 5 years, secured through a mortgage, to homeowners who want to make energy improvements to their properties. Eligible improvements include water heaters, furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, building insulation, windows, and doors. Custom improvements may eligible as well as determined by the program admistrator. The property should be single-family (1-4 units) residential, but up to 49% of the residence can be used for business. Contact: Center for Energy and Environment, 212 3rd Ave North, Suite 560, Minneapolis, MN 55401; 612-335-5885; 612-335-5884; Fax: 612-335-5888; http://www.mncee.org/programs_residential/home_improvement_financing/home_energy_loan_program/index.php

Incentives to Improve the Energy Efficiency of Your Home
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Lake City Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, central and room air conditioners, ceiling fans with lighting, light fixtures, air and ground source heat pumps, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Incentives are from $2 for fluorescent light bulbs to $200 for central air conditioners (plus $75 for every 1 SEER above 14). In addition to these rebates, residential customers can receive rebates on LED holiday lights between October 1, 2008 and December 31, 2008.Contact: Lake City Utilities, PO Box 465, 205 West Center Street, Lake City, MN 55041-0465; 651-345-4711; http://www.saveenergyinlakecity.com/

Rebates for Energy Efficient Equipment
Lake County Power encourages energy efficiency by offering financial incentives to its residential customers. Rebates are available for Energy Star rated products purchased on or after January 1, 2008 and include dishwashers, clothes washers, refrigerators, freezers, dehumidifiers, heat pumps, and AC window units. Incentive amounts go up to $200 per ton for ground source heat pumps. In addition to the appliance rebates, Lake County Power also provides a $25 incentive for AC tune ups that is valid through 2008. Contact: Member Service Department, Lake County Power, 2810 Elida Drive, Grand Rapids, MN 55744; 800-421-9959 or Member Service Department, Lake County Power, 1500 16th Street South, Virginia, MN 55744; 800-421-9959 or Member Service Department, Lake Country Power, 4065 Hwy 73, Kettle River, MN 55757, 800-421-9959; http://www.lakecountrypower.coop/viewpage.php?pagename=ratesandrebates

Cash Back for Energy Home Improvements
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Litchfield Public Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners (central and room), ceiling fans, light fixtures, heat pumps (air and ground source), dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. In addition to these rebates, residential customers can receive rebates on LED holiday lights between October 1, 2008 and December 31, 2008. Incentives go up to $200 for central A/C (plus $75 for every 1 SEER above 14). Contact: Litchfield Public Utilities, PO Box 521, 126 N. Marshall Avenue, Litchfield, MN 55355-0521; 320-693-3277;  http://www.saveenergyinlitchfield.com/

Rebates for Energy Efficient Equipment and Certification
Marshall Municipal Utilities (MMU) offers a variety of incentives for its residential customers to install energy-efficient equipment in their homes. Rebates are available for Energy Star equipment including clothes washers, refrigerators and freezers, dishwashers, window unit A/C, water heaters, central A/C, and heat pumps. Customers seeking rebates for central A/C units or heat pumps must also participate in the Load Management Program and are eligible to receive an additional $3 monthly credit for 4 summer months. In addition to Energy Star equipment rebates, MMU offers an Energy Star Home Rebate program in which they assist homeowners and contractors in achieving Energy Star certification. MMU will rebate the entire cost of design review, third party home performance verification and testing, and Energy Star certification (up to $1,000) for new homes located in MMUís service territory. Contact: Customer Service, Marshall Municipal Utilities, 113 South 4th Street, Marshall, MN 56258; 507-537-7005; http://www.marshallutilities.com/residential/rebates.php

Renewable Energy Production Incentive
Supported by the state's Renewable Development Fund, Minnesota offers a payment of 1.0¢ to 1.5¢ per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for electricity generated by hydro facilities and on-farm anaerobic manure methane digesters. This incentive is available to hydro facilities located at the site of a dam, if the dam was in existence as of March 31, 1994, and begins generating electricity after July 1, 1994 or generates electricity after substantial refurbishing of a facility that begins after July 1, 2001. In order to receive payments, qualifying hydro facilities must begin operation by December 31, 2011. Contact: Energy Information Center, Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Division, 85 7th Place East, Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55101-2198; 651-296-5175; Fax: 651-297-7891; http://www.state.mn.us/cgi-bin/portal/mn/jsp/content.do?id=-536881350&subchannel=-536881511&sc2=null&sc3=null&contentid=536885915&contenttype=EDITORIAL&programid=536885394&agency=Commerce

$15 Mail-In Rebate for Energy Star Lighting and Fixtures
Minnesota Power Energy Star Lighting and Fixture Program offers a $15 mail-in rebate on up to 12 Energy Star Qualified fixtures, torchieres, and ceiling fan with light kits. To receive the rebates cut out the UPC code(s) from each box and attach it to the rebate form along with a copy of the cash register receipt. Minnesota Power also offers a $2 mail-in rebate to any participant who purchases Compact Flourescent Light Bulbs. Contact: Customer Service - MN Power, Minnesota Power, 30 West Superior Street, Duluth, MN 55802; 800-228-4966 Ext.2909; 218-722-5642; http://www.mnpower.com/

$100 Incentive in Energy Star Appliance Program
Minnesota Power offers rebates to its residential customers through the Energy Star Appliance Program. Qualifying appliances include Energy Star clothes washers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and dishwashers. Incentive amounts go up to $100 for a washer/refrigerator/dishwasher combination. Rebates are only available to residential customers of Minnesota Power and participating utilities only. Qualifying appliance(s) must be installed within the service area of a participating utility. Contact: Customer Service - MN Power, Minnesota Power, 30 West Superior Street, Duluth, MN 55802; 800-228-4966 Ext.2909; 218-722-5642; http://www.mnpower.com/powerofone/one_home/energystar/special_offers/index.htm

Rebates for Energy Efficiency Equipment for Your Home
Minnesota Power HVAC Incentives Program offers rebates to residential customers for installing high efficiency furnaces, improving efficiency of central air conditioners, and installing geothermal heat pumps in new construction homes or retrofit of existing homes. Incentive amounts are: installation of high-efficiency furnace $250; improving efficiency of central air conditioner $50; geothermal heat pump $200/ton closed loop system rebate, $100/ton open loop system rebate. Contact: Customer Service - MN Power, Minnesota Power, 30 West Superior Street, Duluth, MN 55802; 800-228-4966 Ext.2909; 218-722-5642; http://www.mnpower.com/hvac/index.htm

Up to $20,000 Available in Solar-Electric Rebate Program
Minnesota Power offers a rebate of $2,000 per kilowatt-DC for grid-connected solar-electric (PV) systems, with a maximum award of $4,000 per customer. This program, which is available to the utility's residential customers began, in February 2004 and is subject to availability of funding. Minnesota Power's rebate for PV systems must be combined with the Minnesota Department of Commerce's Solar-Electric (PV) Rebate Program, which also offers $2,000 per kilowatt (up to $20,000). Systems must meet the installation completion timeline established by the Minnesota Department of Commerce's Solar-Electric (PV) Rebate Program. The minimum system capacity is 1 kW, the maximum rebated capacity is 2 kW. (Systems may be larger, but the incentive is paid only on the first 2 kW.) Contact: Minnesota Power, 30 West Superior Street, Duluth, MN 55802; 218-722-5642 Ext.2843; Fax: 218-720-2795; http://www.nmnrenewables.org/incentives/minnesota_power/index.shtml

Low Interest Loans to Finance Energy Efficiency Improvements
Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative offers low-interest loans to help its residential customers finance energy efficiency improvements through their Energy Conservation Loan Program. ERC Loans can be used for: caulking; weather stripping; heat pumps, electric water heaters and central heating; heat pump installations; electric water heaters; insulation for ceilings, walls, floors, ducts, pipes and water heaters; thermal windows; storm or thermal doors; clock thermostats; and ventilation fans. ERC loans are available only for replacement items, not for new homes. Loans can be for up to $1,500 if they are used for air-source heat pumps, or $3,000 if the customer is installing a ground-source heat pump. Loans are at 5% interest with 5 years to pay off. Contact: Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative, 125 Minnesota Valley Electric Drive, Jordan, MN 55352; 952-492-2313; 800-282-6832; http://www.mvec.net/save/loans.asp

Financial Incentives for Energy Efficient and Renewable Technologies
Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative offers financial incentives to encourage energy efficiency within the residential sector. Rebates are available for a variety of equipment including air conditioners, air-source heat pumps, ground-source heat pumps, geothermal heat pumps, Energy Star appliances, electric garage heaters, and electric resistance heating products. Incentives range up to $330 for central A/Cs. With the exception of the appliances, equipment can only be eligible for the rebate if the customer participates in the Energy Wise Off-Peak Program. These rebates can be awarded to either homeowners or homebuilders depending on who initiates the energy efficient design. Contact: Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative, 125 Minnesota Valley Electric Drive, Jordan, MN 55352; 952-492-2313; 800-282-6832; http://www.mvec.net/save/rebates.asp

Rebates to Improve the Efficiency of Your Home
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Mora Municipal Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, central and room air conditioners, ceiling fans, light fixtures, air and ground source heat, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Incentives go up to $200 for central A/Cs (plus $75 for every 1 SEER above 14). Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Contact: Mora Municipal Utilities, 101 Lake Street South, Mora, MN 55051-1588; 320-679-1511; http://www.saveenergyinmora.com/

Low Interest Loans up to $35,000 for Energy Home Improvements
The Neighborhood Energy Connection offers secured, low-interest loans for qualified energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements to Minnesota residences. Loans are available for single family homes, duplexes, and quads with household incomes below $91,300, in amounts ranging from $2,000 - $35,000. Loan repayment terms vary from 1 to 20 years according the amount of the loan at a fixed interest rate of 6.00%. Most costs of this financing offer can be rolled into the loan with out-of-pocket costs generally not exceeding $200. In order to be eligible for a loan, qualified homeowners must contact the NEC to schedule an energy audit. The actual improvements undertaken are up to the homeowner, but financed projects must include at least one of the recommendations made by the auditor. Contact: Neighborhood Energy Connection, 624 Selby Avenue, Saint Paul , MN 55104; 651-221-4462 Ext.132; Fax: 651-221-9831; http://www.thenec.org/energy_financing/index.php?strWebAction=article_detail&intArticleID=222

Cash Rebates for Power Saving Home Improvements
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, New Prague Utilities Commission provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners (central and room), ceiling fans, light fixtures, heat pumps (air and ground source), dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Incentives range from $2 for fluorescent light bulbs up to $200 for central A/Cs (plus $75 for every 1 SEER above 14.)  Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Contact: New Prague Utilities Commission, 118 Central Ave. N, New Prague, MN 56071-1534; 952-758-1134; http://www.saveenergyinnewprague.com/

Energy Efficient Incentives on Offer
New Ulm Public Utilities (NUPU) offers incentives for its residential customers to install energy-efficient equipment in their homes and facilities. Equipment eligible for rebates include programmable thermostats, Energy Star appliances, boilers, furnaces, central A/C units, room A/C units, lighting, and furnace cleanings. The maximum incentive is $200-350 for central A/C units. In addition to equipment rebates, NUPU offers an opportunity for their customers to increase their energy efficiency through their ReLeaf Tree Reimbursement Program. NUPU will reimburse their customers 2/3 of the cost of eligible trees up to a maximum of $75 per tree, provided the trees are planted in an area that will provide adequate shade to the building. Contact: New Ulm Public Utilities, Attn: Rebates, 301 1st North Street, New Ulm, MN 56073; 507-359-8228; http://www.ci.new-ulm.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7B743A5650-3018-4B6E-B7B0-662834287912%7D

Rebates for Power Efficient Equipment
Utilizing help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, North Branch Municipal Water & Light provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, central and room air conditioners, ceiling fans, light fixtures, air and ground heat pumps, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Incentives go up to $200 for central A/Cs, which are also available  Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Contact: North Branch Municipal Water & Light, PO Box 176, 6388 Maple Street, North Branch, MN 55056-0176; 651-674-7100; http://www.saveenergyinnorthbranch.com/

$12,000 Loans for New Electric Technologies
Otter Tail Power Company's DollarSmart Financing Program offers $150 - $7,000 loans to residential customers. In addition, residential customers are eligible for financing up to $12,000 for geothermal heat pump installations and installation of combination electric systems. Customers may use the 7.9% Competitive Rate Plan to finance purchases of new electric technologies including electric heating applications, complete dual fuel systems, electric cooling application, and new electric water heaters. As part of Minnesota's Conservation Improvement Program, qualifying Minnesota customers are eligible for the 2.9% Energy Efficiency plan to help pay for Conservation Improvement Program (CIP) qualified energy-saving technologies. Contact: Otter Tail Power Company, PO Box 496, 215 S Cascade Street, Fergus Falls, MN 56538-0496; 218-739-8200; 800-257-4044; http://www.otpco.com/ProductsServices/Financing.asp

Rebates for High Efficiency Electric Applications
Otter Tail Power Company Rebate Program offers rebates to all qualifying customers for the installation of high-efficiency electric heating applications. Under Minnesota's Conservation Improvement Plan (CIP), customers are also eligible for additional rebates including motors and heat pumps. In addition, the Otter Tail Power Company offers the HotPack Program which provides residential customers who replace or install an electric water heater with a free package of energy-saving devices, which includes water-saving shower head, kitchen or bath aerator, insulating pipe wrap, water temperature gauge card, and water-flow tester. Maximum incentives are $10,000 for thermal storage technologies and $5000 for water heating. Contact: Otter Tail Power Company, Customer Service, PO Box 496, 215 S Cascade Street, Fergus Falls, MN 56538; 800-257-4044; http://www.otpco.com/SaveEnergyMoney/Rebates.asp

Rebates in Energy Conserve and Save Program
Owatonna offers incentives for its residential customers to install energy efficient equipment in their homes through their Conserve and Save Rebate Program. Rebates are available for clothes washers/dryers, dishwasher, refrigerators/freezers, dehumidifiers, water heaters, lighting, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, air conditioners, building insulation, motors, ceiling fan with lighting. Rebates range from $15 for light fixtures to $100-300 for boilers, depending on efficiency. Contact: Customer Service, Owatonna Public Utilities, PO Box 800, Owatonna, MN 55060-0800; 507-451-2480; Fax: 507-451-4940; http://www.owatonnautilities.com/forms.php

Rebates for Energy Efficient Technologies
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Preston Public Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners (central and room), ceiling fans, light fixtures, heat pumps, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled.  Maximum incentive is for central A/Cs,  $200 plus $75 for each additional SEER over 14. Contact: Preston Public Utilities, PO Box 657, 210 Fillmore St. West, Preston, MN 55965-0657; 507-765-2491; http://www.saveenergyinpreston.com/

Incentives for Power Saving Measures in Your Home
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Princeton PUC provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners (central and room), ceiling fans, light fixtures, air and ground source heat pumps, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Incentives from $2 up to $200 for central A/Cs plus $75 for each additional SEER over 14. Contact: Princeton PUC, PO Box 218, 907 First Street, Princeton, MN 55371-0218; 763-389-5844; http://www.saveenergyinprinceton.com/

Rebates to Improve Power Efficiency in Your Home
Utilizing help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Redwood Falls Public Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, central and room air conditioners, ceiling fans, light fixtures, heat pumps (air and ground source), dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Incentives range from $2 to $200. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Contact: Redwood Falls Public Utilities, PO Box 526, 333 South Washington Street, Redwood Falls, MN 56283-0526; 507-637-5789; http://www.saveenergyinredwoodfalls.com/

$10,000 Loan to Increase Energy Efficiency
The Rental Energy Loan Fund provides financial assistance to owners of residential rental properties to increase the energy efficiency of their buildings. Eligible efficient technologies are: water heaters, lighting, building insulation, heating systems, windows, doors, and comprehensive measures/whole building. It is not restricted to low-income owners, and covers a wide range of efficiency improvements for a property. Borrowers must have at least one-third interest in the property, or be purchasing it through a mortgage or contract for deed. The property must contain at least one rental dwelling unit and have been built prior to May 1, 1989. The maximum loan under this program is $10,000 and the maximum term is 5 years. The interest rate on all loans is 4.0% and there are no penalties for prepayment. Contact: Center for Energy and Environment, 212 3rd Ave North, Suite 560, Minneapolis, MN 55401; 612-335-5885; 612-335-5884 Fax: 612-335-5888; http://www.mncee.org/programs_residential/rental_rehab_financing/rental_energy_loan_fund/index.php

Rebates to Install Power Efficient Technologies in Your Home
Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) offers incentives for its residential customers to install energy efficient equipment in their homes through their Conserve and Save Rebate Program. Eligible efficiency technologies are: clothes washers/dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators/freezers, dehumidifiers, water heaters, lighting, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, air conditioners, building insulation, motors, and ceiling fans with lighting. Incentives range from $15 up to $100-300 for boilers. Contact: Residential Rebates, Rochester Public Utilities, 4000 East River Road NE, Rochester, MN 55906, 507-280-1537; 507-280-1500; http://www.rpu.org/your_home/rebates_and_incentives/conserve_and_save/

Incentives for Improving The Energy Efficiency of Your Home
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Saint Peter Municipal Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, central and room air conditioners, ceiling fans, light fixtures, air and ground source heat pumps, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Incentives range from $15 to $200 for central air conditioners (plus $75 for every 1 SEER over 14). Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Contact: Saint Peter Municipal Utilities, 405 W St. Julien Street, Saint Peter, MN 56082-1874; 507-934-0771; http://www.saveenergyinsaintpeter.com/

Rebates for Purchasing Energy Saving Appliances
Shakopee Public Utilities offers its residential customers rebates on energy-efficient household appliances. Qualifying appliances, windows, and doors must be Energy Star rated. Maximum incentive is the window/door rebate which is $750. Rebates are limited to purchases made in the current year and applications must be submitted for processing no later than November 30. Contact: Rebates, Shakopee Public Utilities, PO Box 470, Shakopee, MN 55379-0470; 952-233-1524; 954-445-1988; http://www.shakopeeutilities.com/

Up to $10,000 in Solar Hot Water Rebate Program
The Minnesota Office of Energy Security (OES) offers rebates for residential and multi-family residential solar hot water heaters installed on the property of state residents. The rebates are available at different levels for both new systems and for repairs of inoperable systems. Systems that combine solar space heating with solar water heating are eligible for the program, but only the portion of the system devoted to solar water heating is eligible for a rebate. The limitations set on each category of rebate are: Single family: lesser of 25% of system cost or $2,500 for new systems, 50% or $1,000 for system repairs; Multi-family 2-3 units: lesser of 25% of system cost or $4,000 for new systems, 50% or $2,000 for system repairs; and Multi-family 4+ units: lesser of 25% of system cost or $10,000 for new systems, 50% or $3,000 for system repairs. Contact: Energy Information Center; Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Division, 85 7th Place East, Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55101-2198; 651-296-5175; Fax: 651-297-7891; http://www.state.mn.us/portal/mn/jsp/content.do?subchannel=-536881511&programid=536885396&sc3=null&sc2=null&id=-536881350&agency=Commerce

100% Sales Tax Exemption on Solar Energy Systems
In Minnesota, solar-energy systems purchased on or after August 1, 2005, are exempt from the state's sales tax. This exemption applies to solar electric (PV) systems, solar water-heating systems and solar space-heating systems. All components of these systems are exempt, including panels, wiring, pipes, pumps and racks. Contact: Energy Information Center, Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Division, 85 7th Place East, Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55101-2198; 651-296-5175; Fax: 651-297-7891; http://www.state.mn.us/portal/mn/jsp/content.do?id=-536881350&subchannel=-536881511&sc2=null&sc3=null&contentid=536885915&contenttype=EDITORIAL&programid=536885394&agency=Commerce

$22,500 Incentive Available in Solar-Electric Program
The Minnesota Office of Energy Security (OES) administers a solar-electric (PV) rebate program to buy down the up-front costs of grid-connected solar-electric (PV) systems. The incentive is $2.25 per watt for installations with a cap of 10 kW or $22,500. However, larger systems are eligible on a case-by-case basis. Please note: The Minnesota Solar-Electric Rebate Program is fully reserved. The Minnesota Office of Energy Security (OES) will continue to accept applications to be placed on a waiting list pending additional funding and will notify applicants if additional funding becomes available. Funding is still available for the Minnesota Solar Hot Water Rebate Program. Contact: Energy Information Center, Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Division, 85 7th Place East, Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55101-2198; 651-296-5175; Fax: 651-297-7891; http://www.state.mn.us/mn/externalDocs/Commerce/Solar_Electric_Rebate_Program_110802025911_RebateInstructions.pdf

Incentives to Improve the Power Efficiency of Your Home
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Spring Valley Public Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners (central and room), ceiling fans, light fixtures, air and ground source heat pumps, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Incentives range from $25 up to over $200. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Contact: Spring Valley Public Utilities, 104 South Section Avenue, Spring Valley, MN 55975-1646; 507-346-7622; http://www.saveenergyinspringvalley.com/

Rebates for Improving Your Home's Energy Efficiency
Utilizing help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Waseca Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, central and room air conditioners, ceiling fans, light fixtures, air and ground source heat pumps, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Contact: Waseca Utilities, 508 South State Street, Waseca, MN 56093-3033; 507-835-9713; http://www.saveenergyinwaseca.com/

Rebates for Power Efficient Technologies
With help from Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Wells Public Utilities provides incentives for its residential customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Rebates are available for qualified dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners (central and room), ceiling fans, light fixtures, heat pumps (air and ground source), dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers. Appliances must be Energy Star to qualify for the rebate, and bonus incentives are available in some cases if the old working appliance is properly recycled. Contact: Wells Public Utilities, PO Box 96, 101 First Street SE, Wells, MN 56097-0096; 507-553-3119; http://www.saveenergyinwells.com/

Rebates for Purchasing Energy Star Appliances
In order to encourage energy efficiency among its customers, Wild Rice Electric Cooperative offers rebates for the purchase of qualifying Energy Star appliances. The following appliances are available for rebates under this program: refrigerator, clothes washer, central air conditioning, air source heat pump, compact fluorescent lights, and water heater. Maximum incentive is $200 for an air source heat pump. Contact: Member Services, Wild Rice Electric, 502 North Main, Mahnomen, MN 56557; 218-935-2517; 800-244-5709; Fax: 218-935-2519; http://www.wildriceelectric.com/

Incentives for Power Efficient Equipment
Willmar Municipal Utilities (WMU) offer rebates on Energy Star rated appliances and air conditioners. Eligible efficient technologies include clothes washers/dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators/freezers, water heaters, and air conditioners. Incentive amounts are: refrigerator $50, clothes washer $50, dishwasher $50, central A/C $200, and water heater $1.25/gallon (bonus $100 to convert to an electric water heater from another fuel source). WMU also offers a Load Sharing Program where participating customers can receive a $10 per month credit on their electric bills if they allow their water heaters to be energized only from 11:00 PM until 7:00 AM, and free load shifting equipment for their air conditioners. Contact: Energy Services, Willmar Municipal Utilities, 700 SW Litchfield Ave.,
Willmar, MN 56201; 320-235-4422; Fax: 320-235-3980; http://wmu.willmar.mn.us/energy_services.htm

Property Tax Exemption for Wind and Solar-Electric Systems
Minnesota excludes the value added by solar-electric (PV) systems from real property taxation, and all real and personal property of wind-energy systems is exempt from the state's property tax. However, the land on which a PV or wind system is located remains taxable. In lieu of a property tax on large wind-energy systems, a production tax was implemented in 2002. Wind systems greater than 12 MW are taxed at a rate of 0.12 cents/kWh; systems between 2 MW and 12 MW are taxed at a rate of 0.036 cents/kWh; and systems between 250 kW and 2 MW are taxed at a rate of 0.012 cents/kWh. Wind systems under 250 kW are exempt from the production tax, as are systems with a capacity of 2 MW or less that are owned by political subdivisions. Contact: Energy Information Center, Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Division, 85 7th Place East, Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55101-2198; 651-296-5175; Fax: 651-297-7891; http://www.state.mn.us/portal/mn/jsp/content.do?id=-536881350&subchannel=-536881511&sc2=null&sc3=null&contentid=536885915&contenttype=EDITORIAL&programid=536885394&agency=Commerce

Sales Tax Exemption for Wind-Energy Conversion Systems
Wind-energy conversion systems used as electric-power sources are exempt from Minnesota's sales tax. Materials used to manufacture, install, construct, repair or replace wind-energy systems also are exempt from the state sales tax. A "wind energy conversion system" (WECS) is defined as any device, such as a wind charger, wind mill or wind turbine, that converts wind energy to a form of usable energy. Contact: Energy Information Center, Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Division, 85 7th Place East, Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55101-2198; 651-296-5175; Fax: 651-297-7891; http://www.state.mn.us/portal/mn/jsp/content.do?id=-536881350&subchannel=-536881511&contentid=536885915&contenttype=EDITORIAL&programid=536885394&sp2=y&agency=Commerce

Financial Incentives for Energy Star Appliances
Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association provides financial incentives for its residential customers to purchase and install Energy Star rated appliances in their homes. Rebates are offered for qualified clothes washers, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, freezers, ground-source heat pumps, and window A/C units. Incentive amounts are clothes washer $25, dehumidifier $25, freezer $25, refrigerator $25, refrigerator/freezer w/ recycling $50, window AC unit $25, and geothermal heat pump: $150 per ton. All equipment must be Energy Star rated and installed within Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association service territory. Rebates are issued as credit on utility bills. Contact: Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association, PO Box 330, Rockford, MN 55373-0330; 763-477-3000; 800-943-2667; http://www.whe.org/whelectric/rebate.asp

Grants for Renewable Energy Technologies
The Xcel Energy Renewable Development Fund (RDF) provides grants periodically through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process. Renewable-energy technologies eligible for funding solar thermal electric, photovoltaics, wind, biomass, hydroelectric, CHP/Cogeneration, hydrogen, anaerobic digestion, renewable fuels, fuel cells using renewable fuels. Funding is generally split between new development projects that result in the production of renewable energy, and research and development. Wind energy production projects were not eligible for funding under the third and most recent grant cycle and will likely remain so under future cycles. However, wind remains generally eligible for projects not engaged in energy production. Please note that the application deadline for the third and most recent funding cycle is now closed. The fourth funding cycle has not yet been scheduled. Contact: Xcel Energy, 414 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1993; 800-895-4999; Fax: 612-330-7601;  http://www.xcelenergy.com/rdf/

Rebates for Energy Efficient Technologies
Xcel Energy offers rebates and other incentives for its Minnesota residential customers for energy efficient heating and cooling systems. Eligible technologies are water heaters, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, and air conditioners. Incentive amounts range from $30 for central A/C to $330 for air source heat pumps. Residential customers may also qualify for Home Performance Rebate program. In order to be eligible customers must install a minimum of five Energy Star appliances in their home. Xcel Energy also offers the residential Saver's Switch program. Residents receive a bill credit during the summer months in exchange for agreeing to have their air conditioning systems cycled on and off during peak energy demand periods. Contact: Xcel Energy, P.O. Box 59, Minneapolis, MN 55440-0059; 800-481-4700; http://www.xcelenergy.com/XLWEB/CDA/0,3080,1-1-2_738-316-5_538_969-0,00.html