So you want to cut those high heating bills with some alternative energy gizmos, letting the sun or the wind take some of the load? You’ve been eyeing a solar heating system, or even a windmill? The state may be able to help.
Under an enhanced Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) program, homeowners and landlords can now get help financing alternative energy improvements to their properties.
“MSHDA has always provided low-interest loans to Michigan residents for a variety of traditional energy saving home improvements,” says Keith Molin, executive director. But now the agency has added a way to allow Capital region homeowners to be better stewards of the earth’s resources while reducing monthly energy costs, he says.
Income-eligible homeowners may now borrow up to $50,000 to make the improvements through MSHDA’s Property Improvement Program. Items covered by the expanded program include geothermal furnaces, indoor fireplaces, permanently installed radiators, and solar rooms permanently installed for use as a sunroom or family room.
Landlords with eligible rent limits can borrow up to $100,000 or $25,000 per rental unit, and eligible homeowners may have household incomes of up to $74,500 depending on the location of the home. Those interested can get help from designated lenders or community agents.
The PIP lender list includes Huntington National Bank in Ingham and Clinton Counties. Community agents may also be called for assistance: Teresa Frassetto at the City of Lansing Development Office, 517-483-4056; Steven Wagner at the City of St. Johns, 989-224-8944; or Brian Reed at the City of Eaton Rapids, 517-663-8118.
Source: Keith Molin, MSHDA
Gretchen Cochran, Innovations & Jobs editor, may be contacted here.
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