The state legislature appears to have just passed what will be a game changer.
http://www.ncleg.net/Sessions/2009/Bills/House/PDF/H512v5.pdf
First, they have renewed the 35% renewable energy tax credit for active solar, PV, passive solar, and other renewables. Coupled with the 30% federal tax credit (which now thanks to the stimulus has no cap for individuals), this is now a 65% off discount on these technologies if you pay enough taxes to use the credits.
The game changer is that they have also included geothermal for the first time. There is a cap , but it's pretty high ($8400 on the credit) so many small/medium systems won't reach the cap. At 65% off, the price of a geothermal system can look a lot like the price for a high-efficiency air-source heat pump. And a geothermal system with a water to water heat exchanger to replace a boiler system powered by oil or propane can look like a fast payback. I can't really just throw out numbers because different sites will vary a lot, but if you pay taxes, geothermal should be very seriously considered for both new homes and upgrades of existing homes.
There are also Progress energy rebates if you are in their territory:
Home Advantage (for new homes)
http://www.progress-energy.com/custservice/carres/efficiency/programs/ha/index.asp
and Home Energy Improvement Program (for existing home upgrades):
http://www.progress-energy.com/custservice/carres/efficiency/programs/heip/details.asp
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Also wanted to add - The governor needs to sign this bill, and I have been able to verify that she has yet. But it should be happening soon.
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