STAMFORD, Conn., Feb. 16, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- If a recent national poll is any indication, home energy improvements stand to take a big hit in the coming year. The survey released last week by the Shelton Group, indicates federal energy saving incentives and rebates were the primary motivating factor behind Americans decisions to make energy efficiency changes to their homes.
This news comes just as many of these federal incentives are set to expire and the incentive budget has been slashed.
Each year Shelton Group conducts four national polls examining the state of power in the United States and how consumers are saving electricity and why. The February 7th poll revealed 23% of Americans received a rebate or financial incentive for home energy efficiency improvements. 25% said they would not have made the changes without the incentives.
"At a time when money is tight for all Americans, this survey reveals just how valuable and motivating these incentives are," says Jeffrey Mayer, President and CEO of MXenergy, a leading independent energy provider. "I believe most Americans want to make efficiency changes and improvements. For many people, the rebates and incentives may make the difference between their ability to make changes or being forced to stay with the status quo."
The new tax law dramatically reduces incentives on many improvements from 30% of cost to 10%. It also lowers caps on many improvements as well.
"This does not mean homeowners should abandon their efficiency improvement plans," continues Mayer. "What it does represent is a call for all of us in the energy business, from utilities to retailers and manufacturers, to look at what new and creative incentives we can provide to help consumers in this process."
Among the most common energy improvements, according to the Shelton Group poll, were replacing incandescent bulbs, adding sealing, caulking and weather stripping, adding insulation and purchasing ENERGY STAR appliances.
About MXenergy
MXenergy is one of the fastest growing retail natural gas and electricity suppliers in North America, serving approximately 500,000 customers in 41 utility territories in the United States and Canada. For over 11 years, the company has provided millions of customers with a choice in how they purchase energy to run their homes and businesses. Founded in 1999 to provide natural gas and electricity to consumers in deregulated energy markets, MXenergy helps residential customers and small business owners control their energy bills by providing both fixed and variable rate plans. MXenergy is committed to best practices in environmental conservation, supporting local communities through various outreach programs and is a member of the Chicago Climate Exchange. For more information MXenergy please visit www.mxenergy.com.
About Shelton Group
Shelton Group is an advertising and research agency located in Knoxville, Tennessee, focused exclusively on motivating mainstream consumers to make sustainable choices. The agency conducts four proprietary consumer opinion studies annually: Eco Pulse, Energy Pulse, Utility Pulse and Green Living Pulse.
CONTACT: Marjorie Kass (203) 356-1318 ext. 7801 Managing Director mkass@mxenergy.com Laurel O'Connor (209) 782-7212 NorthStar Media Management LLC laurel@northstarmediamanagement.com