(Vista, Calif., Apr. 30, 2009): Solatube International Inc. has long been known to provide “Innovation in Daylighting™” with its popular Solatube Daylighting Systems and accessories. Today, the company is pleased to shine the spotlight on its other energy-saving products, the Solar Star attic fan and Solar Star Conversion Kit, both of which now qualify for a 30 percent government tax credit toward the costs of the product and installation.

“In a time when consumers are trying to get the most ‘bang for their buck,’ the Solar Star attic fan is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to help homeowners save on their monthly utility bills,” said Cynthia Sener, vice president of marketing for Solatube International. “Now, with the added tax credit incentive, we are excited to provide homeowners with an even greater value, which we hope will spark further awareness and interest in ‘greening’ homes.”

It is well documented that a poorly ventilated attic can increase heating and cooling costs, contribute to problems with dangerous mold and accelerate the deterioration of critical roof structures. Temperatures inside an attic with inadequate ventilation can reach as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat trapped in the attic also radiates into the living space below causing air conditioning units to work even harder.

Under recent legislation that encourages homeowners to choose more energy-efficient home products, homeowners that choose to purchase and install a Solar Star attic fan or Solar Star Conversion Kit will now receive a 30 percent tax credit on all Solar Star units installed between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2016 – a value of up to $175.

The government recognizes the Solar Star attic fan’s photovoltaic capabilities, which utilize a technologically advanced “run-by-the-sun” solution, harnessing the sun’s rays to solve heat and moisture problems. That means there are no electricity costs associated with operation. The Solar Star Conversion Kit boosts the performance of existing passive attic vents and transforms noisy- and energy-consuming vents into quiet and highly efficient solar-powered rooftop ventilators.

The Solar Star attic fan and Solar Star Conversion Kit are designed with a leak proof and high-impact resistant design against hail, wind and foreign object damage. In addition, the products are “DIY-friendly.” Homeowners can easily install the product in about 30 minutes on any type of roof. Professional installation is also available.

In addition to consulting a tax professional, homeowners are encouraged to visit www.solatube.com for tax credit certification information. Consumers should note that the installed Solar Star attic fan must meet local fire and electrical code requirements in order to qualify. Taxpayers may use IRS tax form 5695 when filing for the tax credit. The 2009 version of the form will be available online later this year.

Solatube International Inc., based in Vista, Calif. (northern San Diego County), is the worldwide leading manufacturer and marketer of Tubular Daylighting Devices (TDDs).  The company’s flagship product, the Solatube Daylighting System, provides a revolutionary natural lighting solution for all types of residential and commercial applications and is the only spec-grade TDD currently available on the market.  The maxim “Innovation in DaylightingTM” reflects the company’s commitment to the development of breakthrough daylighting technologies, which has resulted in numerous patents dating back to the mid-1980s.  Widely recognized as the industry innovator, Solatube International has earned acclaim around the globe for its unrivaled ability to transform interior spaces with the power of daylight.  For more information on the Solatube Daylighting System or other products manufactured and marketed by Solatube International, including solar-powered attic ventilation fans, please visit the Solatube Web site at http://www.solatube.com or call 888-SOLATUBE (888-765-2882).

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