Thursday, March 12, 2009

Update on the tax credit for small wind turbines

Q: What does this mean to me?

A: The entire cost of a Skystream system (plus installation) is reduced by 30 percent provided you have a tax liability over
the course of two years. Depending on where you live, you could save even more! States have also implemented rebates for
small wind systems which can be used in addition to the Federal credit. Furthermore, in the last two months alone, more than
30 states have introduced legislation that either expands incentives for renewable energy and/or addresses market barriers.
Learn more at http://www.skystreamenergy.com/incentives.

Q: How does a tax credit work?

A: Typically, a tax credit is money that you can deduct from any money owed to the federal government at tax time (tax
liability). The small wind tax credit can be carried over two years after the product is installed. For more information on how to
take advantage of the credit, we suggest that you speak to a tax specialist.

Q: I don’t normally owe taxes – how can I claim the credit?

A: You can only claim the credit based on what you would owe in taxes (your tax liability after two years). If you do not
normally receive a refund, you may want to consult with a tax specilalist to understand better what opportunities are available
to you.

Q: How do I claim the credit?

A: You will be required to file the long form and itemize your deductions. The IRS form 5695 must be completed and filed
with your taxes. The current form does not reflect the changes to the most recent legislation.

Q: Can someone who already owned a Skystream claim the tax credit?

A: If you purchased a Skystream in 2008, you qualify for the federal-level tax credit, passed as part of the October 2008
bailout legislation, up to $2,400 per wind turbine with a cap of $4000. If you purchased a Skystream in 2008 but your
dealer did not install it until 2009, ask your dealer to write a letter indicating that the wind turbine was not “commissioned” in
2008 and became operational 2009. You would qualify for the 30 percent tax incentive in your 2009 filing.

Q: What if I want to purchase and install more than one Skystream?

A: The stimulus package allows for a 30 percent tax credit on the total cost of multiple units. There is no cap on the 30
percent tax credit. Businesses may qualify for a grant from the US Treasury in lieu of a tax credit.

Q: I heard I can get cash back rather than a tax credit – how does that work?

A: Businesses can apply for a grant from the US Treasury and rather than a tax credit, receive a cash grant. The details are
still being worked out but should be in place by April or May. Keep in touch with your dealer or the manufacturer for more
information.

Information taken for Southwest Windpower Newsletter.

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