Department of Energy Offers Rebates To Help Consumers Purchase Efficient Appliances

Consumers can purchase new ENERGY STAR appliances for less, thanks to a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) program. Using less energy to power appliances translates into healthier air quality because coal-fired power plants have to produce less energy and therefore reduce their emissions.

Nearly $300 million in funding is available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for state-run rebate programs for consumer purchases of new ENERGY STAR qualified home appliances.  More than $8.8 million has been designated for North Carolina.

Consumers can receive rebates of $50 to $200 for ENERGY STAR appliances, says Jill Notini of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. They receive additional benefits in savings on their electric bills. Notini told National Public Radio Nov. 29 that if a consumer replaces a 10-year-old washer with an ENERGY STAR model, he or she can save $135 in electricity and 5,000 gallons of water each year.

To find rebates that are available locally in Rowan and Cabarrus counties or in any area of the United States, visit energystar.gov and click on “Rebate Finder.”