Clunkers for Appliances Moving Forward
November 13, 2009 06:28 AM
By JON CAMPBELL
Gannett Albany Bureau
ALBANY _ Following in the footsteps of the popular but controversial "Cash for Clunkers" federal program, New York is moving forward with a plan to offer rebates to residents who replace their outdated appliances with newer, more efficient models.
The Great Appliance Swap Out program, which is currently awaiting federal approval, would distribute $16.8 million of federal stimulus money to purchasers of refrigerators, washers, freezers and dishwashers that meet ENERGY STAR standards, offering higher rebates to those who recycle their old units.
The program, which would offer about 170,000 rebates, would be offered during the week of President's Day, beginning Feb. 16, 2010. The initiative, part of $300 million allocated nationwide, needs to be approved by the federal Department of Energy.
"New York must continue to build a clean energy economy that will cut our energy costs and reduce our greenhouse gas pollution," Gov. David Paterson said in a statement. "This program will provide an important boost to the economy, while encouraging consumers all across New York to buy appliances that reduce energy consumption."
The plan would offer different rebates for each appliance. Rebates of $75 would be available for refrigerators and washers, while freezers qualify for $50. If the old unit is recycled, purchasers would receive $105 for refrigerators, $100 for washers and $75 for freezers.
Dishwashers only qualify for rebates if they are bought along with two other appliances that qualify. If a consumer buys three appliances, they would receive a $500 rebate, with an additional $50 rebate for recycling. All three appliances have to meet the national Consortium of Energy Efficiency's standards, which exceed ENERGY STAR's.
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