Most people who go green have more than economic incentives in mind. Motivations stem from concern for the environment and the legacy we leave future generations. Going green is also the result of trying to live a healthier lifestyle, one nurtured by organic foods, one that conscientiously supports local communities and workers as opposed to overfed corporations.

At the same time, there’s no harm in earning back a little money from our investment in the environment. As you seek a well-rounded approach to environmental friendliness, here are five ways to find payback.

1. Check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE).

You may be eligible for a tax credit or a private or public grant. This website is searchable by state for information on state, local, utility, and federal incentives promoting renewable, efficient energy. This includes rewards for alternative energy use, energy conservation, and residential geothermal installations.

2. Check Energy Star‘s rebate finder.

Here, you can type in your zip code and the product type to see what type of rebates the company has to offer on what you’ve purchased. This is in addition to government tax credits that come with purchasing energy efficient doors and windows, insulation, roofing, or other products. Your home needs them anyway, so why not buy the products that go the extra mile?

3. See if your home improvement project qualified for a federal tax credit.

It may be eligible due to the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which established a federal tax credit for homes exceeding energy performance thresholds as outlined in the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code.

4. Have you recently installed solar power? You can get money back.

The federal government offers solar tax credits of around $2000 for photovoltaic installations and solar thermal applications. A good resource to stay abreast of these tax credits is the Solar Energy Industries Association.

5. Check for incentives from your local utility company.

PG&E, for instance, offers residential rebates for installing energy efficient products and residential cool roofs.