Affordable Energy From the Sun
	The Benefits of Long Term Financing
	Other Financing Options
	Financing Contacts
	Tax Credits and Accelerated Depreciation for Businesses

The Benefits of Long Term Financing

Although there is not a single "best answer" for how to finance renewable energy systems, there are usually some significant benefits to using longer term (more than 10 year) financing. By using a longer-term loan you will often end up with a lower monthly payment, and this often provides a better match with the savings produced by your renewable energy system.

Secured loans (most commonly mortgage and home equity loans) also often allow you to take advantage of tax deductions for interest payments. These tax savings can significantly improve the economics of your solar electric or hot water system over the full term of your loan.

If you are interested in financing a renewable energy system through a mortgage, two products, the Energy Efficiency Mortgage (EEM) for new construction and the Energy Improvement Mortgage (EIM) for purchase or refinance can help you incorporate the cost of your renewable energy system into your mortgage. For more information including advice for borrowers and lenders interested in using EEM's and EIM's to finance renewable energy systems contact Energy Rated Homes of Vermont (http://www.erhvt.org) or call the RERC.

Another source for information on mortgage programs supporting renewable energy systems is the Green Energy Finance site (www.energyfinance.org).