In February 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 was enacted, creating a renewable energy grant program. The United States Department of Treasury oversees the program, and offers cash grants instead of federal business energy investment tax credits.

In July 2009, documents which detailed all deadlines for these new renewable energy grants became available. The details released by the United States Department of Treasury included terms, conditions of the grants and a sample application. Those who wish to apply will be able to undergo an initial online application process.

The solar grant is equal to 30% of the basis of any property for solar energy. The requirements are that the location contain gear that creates fuel through solar energy capture and that it be qualified. Solar pool-heating systems are not eligible however hybrid solar lighting systems may be eligible.

You can expect to receive a grant of thirty percent in most cases. There is a cap of $1,500 per kilowatt in capacity for this grant.

The small wind turbine grants are equal to 30% of the property. These include 100 kilowatt turbines.

There are also grants for qualified facilities, geothermal heat pumps, micro-turbines and combined heat and power systems. Only tax-paying entities are eligible for the grants, so federal, state, and local governments, non-profits, cooperative electric companies, and qualified energy tax credit bond lenders are not eligible.