Aug 6 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Matthew Spolar The Philadelphia Inquirer

Homeowners and businesses seeking new ways to produce and conserve energy can register online for updates on the state's new $650 million Alternative Energy Investment Fund.

The Department of Environmental Protection says it has received scores of calls and e-mails from consumers and businesses interested in taking advantage of the rebates and other incentives included in the new program.

The fund will provide $500 million in grants and loans to implement alternative and renewable energy sources, construct green buildings, help low-income consumers, and promote cleaner energy generators. In addition, $150 million will support energy-efficiency projects, such as home weatherization.

The fund targets the development of solar energy projects. It dedicates $100 million to cover up to 35 percent of the costs for residential consumers and small businesses to buy and install solar technology, and $80 million for economic development in the solar sector.

Neil Weaver, a DEP spokesman, said the press office had received 50 to 60 calls about the program since Gov. Rendell signed the energy bill on July 9. To receive e-mail updates, register at www.ahs2.dep.state.pa.us/aeifsignup.

Weaver said the guidelines and application process for the fund were being finalized before the $500 million bond is turned over to the Commonwealth Finance Authority for distribution.

"I don't want to speculate," he said, "but we would hope to have it ready by" the end of the year.

Dan Griffiths, a DEP deputy secretary, attributed the groundswell of interest in the program to families and employers facing rising gas prices, as well as concern about the rising costs of electricity and heating oil.

"Consumers are seeing all of this and looking at how it'll affect their pocketbook or their bottom line, and they're searching for alternatives," he said. "The investments we'll make with the new Alternative Energy Investment Fund will help consumers take advantage of alternative technologies."

Contact staff writer Matthew Spolar at 717-236-1819.

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