Renewable energy enthusiasts often find their good intentions thwarted by the high cost of solar and wind power systems. But these clean, self-sufficient energy sources are more feasible than it may appear at first glance. State and federal energy incentives, including rebates, tax credits and net-metering, can help you install a renewable energy system and still stay within your budget. Paired with an Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) ? created to help homeowners either make energy upgrades to an existing home or purchase an energy-efficient home ? they can make renewable energy much more affordable.

While such incentives are exciting, ever-changing legislation and programs that vary by state can make understanding them confusing ? which makes groups such as Energy Star, the U.S. Department of Energy and the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency invaluable resources. Both Energy Star and the DOE offer information on EEMs on their Web sites, and the Incentives Database is the go-to site for information on state-by-state renewable energy incentives, as well as a number of federal programs, both for individuals and corporations.

The Incentives Database provides information on grants, tax credits, rebates, leasing information, loan programs and much more ? basically everything you and/or your tax advisor would need to claim the incentive. And in case any of the terms are unfamiliar, they've included a handy glossary.

You can find more news about renewable energy incentives and DIY renewable energy projects at Mother Earth News. And you can view photos of solar homes from the National Solar Tour here, and see how people like you have put renewable energy systems into their homes.

Have you taken advantage of renewable energy incentives? Share your story in the comments section below.