AUGUSTA -- Rebates of up to $4,000 for qualified wind-power systems are being offered through a new state incentive program.

Efficiency Maine, a Maine Public Utilities Commission program, has established the program for those seeking to install small wind-energy systems. Rebates of up to $2,000 will be available for qualified residential wind systems and $4,000 for nonresidential systems that meet program requirements.

"Wind is an abundant and free resource here, and Mainers increasingly recognize it as a viable component of the state's energy future," said Sharon M. Reishus, commission chairwoman. "This new program will give some help to those who want to take the next step toward energy independence."

The commission also announced renewed but limited availability of rebates for solar-thermal installations under a program temporarily suspended this year after demand exceeded available funding. Applications for these solar-thermal rebates must be postmarked Friday through Jan. 16 to be considered.

Applications for solar-thermal rebates postmarked during that period will be drawn at random by a third-party contractor.

Fred Bever, public information coordinator for the Public Utilities Commission, said the level of rebate available for solar-thermal systems has been changed. As of Friday, the maximum rebate for qualified systems will be $1,000 -- or 25 percent of the installed cost, whichever is less -- for either residential or commercial applications.

The maximum rebate for solar photovoltaic systems is $2,000 per installation.

Bever said that, based on demand for solar-thermal rebates in 2008, applications will probably exceed available funding. If that occurs, the program would be suspended for the remainder of the calendar year.

Qualified applications for the wind incentive program received during the first quarter of 2009 will be approved on a first-come, first-served basis.

If, after the first quarter, demand appears to exceed available funding, a random-selection system may be instituted, Bever said.

For more information or to download applications, go online to efficiencymaine.com and click on "Renewable Energy" or call 1-(866) 376-2463 and ask for Richard Fortier.

Mechele Cooper -- 623-3811, ext. 408

mcooper@centralmaine.com