AAMA Supports Legislation Linking Tax Credits to ENERGY STAR

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) members are voicing their support for proposed legislation that would make it easier for consumers to take advantage of the economic stimulus package’s tax credit toward energy-efficient windows, doors and skylights that are appropriate for their region.

Introduced this week by Sens. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA), the bill (S.1792) changes the eligibility standard to allow ENERGY STAR®-rated products to qualify for home improvement tax credits specified in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Previously, windows and doors were required to attain a value of 0.30 or less for both U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient. The ENERGY STAR requirements effective in 2010 are inclusive of skylights, as well as windows and doors, with the performance targets tied to four different U.S. regional climate zones.

“ENERGY STAR is widely recognized and aligning the tax incentive with ENERGY STAR will facilitate recognition of qualifying windows, doors and skylights. Moving the tax credit from the .30/.30 standard to the 2010 ENERGY STAR standards eliminates confusion among consumers and will facilitate their selection of products that qualify for the tax credit and are tailored to meet the specific heating and cooling challenges of the climate zone where they live,” said Rich Walker, AAMA president and CEO. “In short, these tax credits help to build consumer demand for energy-saving technology, create thousands of jobs, save precious energy resources and reduce consumer energy bills.”

A full news releases is available online at AAMA’s online news room.

Filed under: AAMA, CLIENT NEWS