Combs Announces Federal Stimulus Appliance Rebates

(AUSTIN) — Texas Comptroller Susan Combs today announced the state will use approximately $23 million in federal stimulus funds for a mail-in rebate program for consumers who purchase certain energy effi- cient household appliances.

The U.S. Department of Energy approved the rebates for consumers who buy eligible Energy Star appliances and replace the same type of old appliance that’s functional. The Texas program will also offer an incentive to recycle old appliances.

“Flat rebates will be given on Energy Star certified refrigerators, freezers, room air conditioners, central air- conditioners, heat pumps, water heaters, clothes washers and dishwashers,” Combs said. “An additional $75 recycling rebate will go to consumers who buy an eligible appliance and recycle the same type of working old appliance.”

The mail-in rebates will apply to eligible appliances purchased between April 16 and April 25, 2010. The tenday period will coincide with Earth Day. Offering the program next spring will give retailers time to stock up on appliances, give the state time to select a vendor to administer the rebates, and allow ample time to inform consumers about details of the rebate program.

“We want to create a program that works for Texas — one that stimulates retail, helps consumers save money and energy and conserves our natural resources by responsibly disposing of as many old appliances as possible,” Combs said. “The rebates will focus on the appliances that will save the most energy and water for Texas.”

Rebates are as follows:

Consumers will have an opportunity to reserve an appliance rebate by calling a toll-free number or registering online approximately two weeks prior to April 16, 2010. After the reserved mail-in rebates are awarded, any remaining funds will be rebated to consumers on a first-come, first-served basis. Shoppers will be limited to two appliance rebates and two recycling rebates per household.

The Comptroller’s State Energy Conservation Office is also working with retailers and recycling facilities to create a system to help consumers replace functional old appliances and recycle them where available.

Further information on the rebate program will be announced as details are finalized. Consumers can sign up for e-mail updates on the rebate program at www.secostimulus. org/rebate.