Tax breaks for energy moves

New tax rules triple the credit given for energy-efficiency home improvements, meaning extra insulation or a skylight could translate into a lower tax bill next year. Outside doors, metal or asphalt roofs, heating and cooling equipment and fuel cell batteries are all covered by the program, but Energy Star-rated appliances generally are not. Jason Hartke, the director of public policy at the U.S. Green Building Council, said insulation and cooling system improvements are a good place for homeowners to start being energy efficient.