New Energy Efficiency Rebates for Appliances
A $300 million federal stimulus for efficiency
“Cash for Clunkers” act two might be called “Funds for Fridges.” The continuation to America’s ever-popular “Cash for Clunkers” program (which yielded 690,114 cars) will soon jump start a new “Cash for Appliances” program that’s coming to a utility near you.
Even though “Cash for Clunkers” is over for cars, over 60 utilities across the U.S. will be offering money for recycled appliances such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, and more. The federal government will be offering rebates from $50 to $200 in support of consumers purchasing more energy-efficient appliances. The goal is simple: Take energy-sucking appliances out of homes and off of energy grids, in favor of newer, more energy-efficient ones, that will save consumers money, and conserve energy.
Supported as part of President Obama’s $787 billion stimulus plan, the Department of Energy will provide states with $300 million which will include these rebates in an effort to boost the economy, and also persuade and help citizens make a transition into a better green, energy-conserving lifestyle.
From a related article in wishtv.com, hhgregg sales manager, Nick Allison says, “What we’re hoping to see is if these rebates come through, consumers can use them with the manufacturer’s rebates and offer them additional savings.”
Let’s All Join In
NV Energy of Nevada has collected over 50,000 refrigerators, freezers, and related appliances over the past five years, giving customers $30 per turn-in. John Hargrove of NV Energy says the goal is to produce the state-ordered 25% of electricity through renewable or energy-efficient sources by 2025.
Regina Stepanov, Vice President of the UNLV Sierra Student Coalition, says, “The average American household spends roughly $2,000 a year on energy bills. Taking the simple initiative to purchase Energy Star appliances will prove to be a true investment, as homeowners will begin to significantly save money and better the environment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Energy Star appliances use 15% less energy than typical appliances. If each household switches to at least one sustainable appliance, even a toaster oven, the energy savings would be immense nationwide. “
Companies like NV Energy, Jaco Environmental and Nebraska Public Power District collected old appliances for recycling for over 25 years. Jaco recycles almost 95% of its appliances, which are destroyed at a waste-to-energy incinerator. The steel is recycled and used for rebar to reinforce roadways, the plastic goes to anything from laptops to compact disc casings, even the chlorofluorocarbons are recycled.
Why not make a little money for your old appliances, along with purchasing an energy-efficient new one in its place? “Cash for Appliances” would seem to be a win/win for both consumers and retailers. You can save hundreds of dollars per year on energy bills, while helping to protect the planet in the process.
Other Reading and Resources
Cash for Appliances Program on the Way by wishtv.com
Appliances Get Their Own Recycled Clunkers Program
Tags: Recycling
September 9th, 2009 at 3:56 pm
If I take advantage of the “Cash for Appliances” program to help me buy an energy-efficient dishwasher, what happens to my old one when they chuck it away? It still works, but I would just like one that is more efficient and will help me save money. I don’t, however, want to waste my old dishwasher. Is there somewhere it can be recycled for its parts?
September 9th, 2009 at 5:50 pm
A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this calendar goes to support the efforts of the Sierra Club to preserve and protect our environment. Home Appliance
September 11th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
Cool idea, but would it work?
November 6th, 2009 at 6:40 pm
Does anyone if this program is in action now or if it is going to start anytime soon? I have a refrigerator that needs tossing, but I’m trying to wait for this to be enacted.
November 20th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
What happened to this program? Is it still going to be enacted? Has it already been enacted?