Gov. Joe Manchin and Attorney General Darrell McGraw announced a sales tax holiday for energy-saving home appliances and building materials. The tax break lasts from Sept. 1 through Nov. 31 and includes noncommercial purchases of Energy Star products worth up to $5,000. (Photo courtesy of the governor's office)

CHARLESTON -- West Virginia's Energy Star Sales Tax Holiday is expanding during its second year by increasing the amount of product purchase price that qualifies for sales exempt status and increasing the length of the holiday.

From Sept. 1 through Nov. 30, West Virginians can improve their homes and the environment, lower their long-term energy costs, and save money on purchases of Energy Star qualified products.

"The Energy Star Tax Holiday has been an important tool that has allowed our citizens to improve their quality of living by purchasing energy efficient household appliances with less of a financial burden. With this now being the second tax exemption holiday, I hope that more of our citizens have an opportunity to take advantage of this savings, which will also reduce energy consumption and help our environment," Gov. Joe Manchin said.

"Last year, West Virginians had seven days to take advantage of the holiday and improve the energy efficiency of their homes at a lower out-of-pocket cost. For 2009, the holiday is increased to three months. The per purchase price limit was $2,500 in 2008. For 2009, it is increased to $5,000. West Virginia citizens will have a greater opportunity to benefit from taking part in the holiday."

Manchin introduced the legislation in 2008. Proceeds from Attorney General Darrell McGraw's office's successful litigation against two credit card companies is funding this and other consumer initiatives.

"I am happy that the work of the Attorney General's office is being used to provide tax relief and contribute to energy conservation," McGraw said.

The typical U.S. household spends $2,200 a year on energy bills. With Energy Star qualified products, consumers can save more than 30 percent or more than $700 per year, with similar savings of greenhouse gas emissions, without sacrificing features, style or comfort. Energy Star helps consumers make energy-efficient choices. The Energy Star label is now on more than 60 product categories including major appliances, office equipment, lighting, and home electronics. EPA has also extended the label to cover new homes and commercial and industrial buildings.

During the three month Sales Tax Holiday, West Virginians will not have to pay the state's 6 percent sales and use tax on certain Energy Star qualified products.

Purchases qualify for the sales and use tax holiday if the purchase is for a product that: has been designated as an Energy Star product,
costs $5,000 or less, and is for noncommercial home or personal use.
Energy Star products are distinguished by the Energy Star logo.

All West Virginia businesses that sell Energy Star products must participate in the Sales Tax Holiday.