Getting tax credits for building a green home is extra money back in your bank account after the house is done.

This past October, President Bush signed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. The bill includes updates to federal tax credits for energy-efficient homes and those that make use of renewable energy, such as solar power. The credits were originally tied to the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and then subsequently, The Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008.

The updated credits kick in on Jan. 1, 2009. Here's a breakdown of the credits you’re eligible for if you build a green home or upgrade your home to the standards listed:

Existing-home tax credits (must be primary residence)
House Part	Credit	To qualify
Exterior windows	10% of total cost, up to $200	Must be Energy Star or meet the 2000 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
Exterior doors	10% of the product cost, up to $500 (materials only)	Must be Energy Star or meet the 2000 IECC
Storm doors	10% of the product cost, up to $500 (materials only)
Insulation	10% of the product cost, up to $500 (materials only)
Roofing	10% of the product cost, up to $500 (materials only)	Must be Energy Star
Central AC	$300 toward installation and equipment
Heat pump	$300 toward installation and equipment
Water heater	$300 toward installation and equipment
Biomass space heater or water heater	$300 toward installation and equipment
Furnace	$150 toward installation and equipment	Must have an annual fuel-utilization efficiency (AFUE) of 95% or more
Furnace fan	$50 for an efficient air-circulating fan
Boiler	$150 toward installation and equipment	Must have an annual fuel-utilization efficiency (AFUE) of 95% or more

New-home tax credits (must be completed by Dec. 31, 2009)

Builders can receive a $2000 tax credit for homes that are 50% more efficient in heating and cooling than the 2004 IECC standards.

Renewable-energy tax credits
Energy source	Credit	To qualify
Photovoltaics	30% for equipment and installation; no cap
Solar water systems	30% tax credit for equipment and installation; $2000 cap	Must supply at least 50% of the residence’s annual hot water and must be certified by the SRCC (does not apply to swimming pools or hot tubs)
Geothermal	30% tax credit for equipment and installation; $2000 cap
Wind	$500 per 0.5kw; $4000 cap
Fuel-cell systems	$1500 per 0.5kw

Product specifications and equipment invoices supplied by subcontractors can provide the necessary documentation necessary to apply for these tax credits.