I've been so busy this week with my upcoming column about local authors writing money books, a Sunday housing story and today's daily on home prices improving, that I haven't had much time to work on poor Ka-Blog!

I was just about to head home, but I saw this e-mail about a new state program starting Oct. 1 aimed to help homeowners make energy efficient home improvements and stimulate the economy.

It's called Project ReEnergize and there are a few interesting things about it. For one, there are no income requirements. You can also qualify for this rebate program on top of the $1,500 IRS tax credits for energy efficiency.

You can receive up to $2,500 for replacing windows, pumping your house with insulation and performing attic air sealing. I had to read the FAQ to understand that that basically means sealing the holes from your ceiling to your attic.

Here are the program requirements:

  • Home must be owner-occupied and constructed prior to the year 2000.
  • Must work with a Project ReEnergize qualified contractor, licensed by the state of Minnesota.
  • Only work completed after October 1, 2009 is eligible for rebates.
  • Rebate eligible energy efficient projects must be completed before rebate application can be submitted.
  • Age of Housing Constructed prior to 2000.
  • Square Footage 3,000 square feet or less; not including basements, garages or crawlspaces.
  • Home must be owner occupied and homeowner must have permission to alter building shell.
  • There are no household income limits. Only properties meeting the square footage limit are eligible for rebates.

Andersen Windows also has a site dedicated to its products that qualify for the new rebate. Minnesota GreenStar has information as well.