Energy upgrade rebates going fast in Danville

There are still federal stimulus funds available for energy upgrades to homes and businesses, but only if people act fast.

Kevin Martin, key accounts manager for Danville Utilities, said Virginia Energy Efficiency Rebate and Solar/Wind Rebate funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act could be depleted as quickly as Friday.

“The funds are going much faster than anticipated,” Martin said.

Individuals could qualify for up to $2,250 in rebates for energy improvements in their homes, such as heat pumps, furnaces, water heaters, storm doors, replacement windows, insulation and other energy upgrades — for materials, labor and energy audits. Businesses may qualify for up to $4,250 in rebates.

A separate program offers rebates for qualified renewable energy equipment for solar and wind projects proposed for residential, commercial or nonprofit facilities.

All applications for the rebates are being handled through the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy’s Web site.

People must apply online at http://www.dmme.virginia.gov to reserve a rebate, which will be approved or denied within five to seven businesses days. If approved, the projects must be completed — and documentation submitted — within 180 days for the rebate to be processed.

Some projects completed since June 26 may be covered by the program — as long as consumers have receipts for both materials and labor.

“For qualifying projects, the funds can be retroactive to June 26,” Martin said. “If you’ve completed a project, go and check to see if it is eligible for a rebate.”

Martin encourages people to apply this week for any planned energy upgrades.

“With as much emphasis as we (Danville Utilities) have put on energy upgrades, we don’t want to see people in our region miss out on these rebates,” Martin said. “If you don’t sign up for it, it’s gone and we’ve missed out on it.”